Toft Hill residents launch community speedwatch group to monitor A68 traffic

A TRAFFIC hotspot on the A68 will be well monitored thanks to the launch of a community speedwatch group.
Volunteers from Toft Hill and Etherley enjoyed their first training session ahead of what they hope will be the start of weekly sessions at problem areas in the two villages. The exercise was carried out by PCSO Ian Osborne with help from veteran community speedwatch co-ordinator David Bowes, a former Toft Hill resident who now lives in Bishop Auckland. The co-ordinator for the new speedwatch group and Etherley parish councillor, Janet Barmer, said: “This is just the starting point. We are going to be using the police matrix and eventually we will buy our own matrix or speed gun.”
The system works by volunteers noting vehicles breaking the limit and warning letters being sent out to re-educate them. Fines are not issued.
While the initial speedwatch and training exercise was held in Toft Hill, near The Sportsman pub, Cllr Barmer said the speed checks would be rolled out to other traffic hotspots within the villages.
She added that depending on the number of volunteers they are able to recruit, the aim is to be out on the streets on a weekly basis.
Anyone interested in joining the group can contact Alison Overfield, clerk of Etherley Parish Council, by email etherleypc@btinternet.com