Axminster Police officers are urging residents to be part of a Community Speed Watch scheme. 

Other towns and villages across East Devon have successful Speed Watch groups and Axminster Tytherleigh would like to hear from volunteers who want to help their local area stay safe. 

The core aim of Community Speed Watch is to reduce death and injury on the roads and improve the quality of life for local communities.

Information collected by volunteers determines actual, not perceived, speeds and gives an accurate picture of overall compliance with limits.

The scheme sees volunteers working with police to monitor speeds of vehicles and discourage motorists to exceed limits. Volunteers use speed detection devices and anyone found to be flouting speed restrictions is referred to Devon & Cornwall Police.

The aim is to educate drivers and encourage those exceeding limits to reduce their speed. Enforcement and prosecution can follow for repeat offenders.

New volunteers in Axminster Tytherleigh will receive appropriate training and be supported by the Neighbourhood Policing Team.

PC Ben Middleton, neighbourhood beat manager, said: “Local residents in the Axminster Tytherleigh area and other parts of East Devon tell us that one of their main concerns is speeding motorists and we know that speed is a major factor in many road traffic collisions. Volunteers in other Community Speed Watch groups do a fantastic job and highlight how community minded people can make a difference.

“If you have some spare time to help out each month and want to raise public awareness of speeding in your area please get in touch and we will explain how you can assist us.”    

If you are interested in volunteering email PC Ben Middleton on 17553@dc.police.uk