A new road sign warning drivers to kill their speed has been described by householders as useless, writes Tim Hughes.

The sign on Winterbrook, near the southern entrance to Wallingford, was put up following a reduction in the speed limit from 40 to 30 mph.

Although the lower limit has been welcomed by many local people, residents say it is ineffective.

Cholsey parish councillor, Arnold Grayson, who lives in Winterbrook, said: "There is a lot of hectic driving and people come belting down the road. "Many people would have very little idea the sign was even there and they can't be blamed for missing it."

Ann Goddard, also of Winterbrook, called for more signs along the road and new markings displaying the speed limit on the road surface itself. She said: "The sign is useless. It is too high, not clearly visible and many people don't see it. "

Di Stockhill, a civilian desk officer at Wallingford police station, reiterated concerns about inadequate signage. Oxfordshire County Council area traffic engineer Paul Wilson said no additional signs would be installed as the residential street was lit by street lamps - which already indicated a 30 mph speed limit under the highway code. However, he said the existing one may be replaced with something bigger and clearer.

Story date: Wednesday 01 December

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