PEOPLE in rural East Dorset have been signing up to catch drivers speeding through their villages.

After the Forest Journal featured the plea for Community Speed Watch volunteers, many people came forward to offer their help, and several groups have been set up, covering Alderholt, Holt and Gaunts Common. A fourth group is currently being set up in Sixpenny Handley.

But there are still opportunities available to make a difference with the scheme, which gives local communities the opportunity to get actively involved in road safety.

Speed Watch operates in|villages, towns or urban areas across Dorset to discourage|drivers and motorcyclists from speeding.

Dorset Police Safer Neighbourhood Team liaison officers assist groups in setting up by providing practical advice and support.

Volunteers use hand-held devices to record and monitor details of motorists seen speeding and can also note drivers using a mobile phone or not wearing seatbelts. The police then send warning letters to these motorists.

Police Community Support Officer Louise Hamilton, of the East Dorset Rural Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Community Speed Watch gives local residents the chance to target drivers who carelessly speed through their villages, putting themselves, their families and friends at risk.

“The information they collect can be passed on to traffic officers, Safer Neighbourhood Teams and Dorset Road Safe to identify problem areas and repeat speeders.

“We are delighted that so many residents in rural East Dorset have signed up to the scheme and are keen to hear from anyone else wishing to take part.”

If you would like to participate in Community Speed Watch, contact your Safer Neighbour-hood Team to find out if a scheme already exists or to initiate the setting-up of a new scheme. Visit dorset.police.uk for more information and contact details or call 101.