According to a new road sign, some Oxfordshire pensioners have a real spring in their step.

For the past three years, a prankster has been out in the dead of night at this time of year to tamper with the warning sign on the edge of Bampton, near Witney.

The standard road sign warning of elderly people crossing the road has been replaced with several amusing alternatives.

Three years ago, the usual picture was replaced with a old man on a unicycle waving his zimmer frame, while last year it was an elderly lady on a skateboard. This year the practical joker provided the startling image of an old gentleman on a pogo-stic. The photographs were taken by Oxford Mail reader Bill Govier, 66, of Manor View, who lives near the sign.

He insisted he was not the culprit and said: "I don't know how the practical joker does it.

"He must make a very early start because by the time daybreak comes, the switch has already been made.

"He has struck again for the third year in succession despite the forming of a special Neighbourhood Watch to try to catch him out." The sign normally shows an elderly couple crossing the road with the help of their walking sticks.

Mr Govier added: "I would like to meet the person behind all this and shake him by the hand, as I think the proper sign is insulting to elderly people."

Bampton district councillor Jonathan Phillips said: "I find it quite splendid and amusing.

"In the past, I have rung up the doctor's surgery to ask them what they are doing to all the old people in the village to make them so lively.

"People living here do seem to have a good sense of humour."

Story date: Thursday 08 April

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