By SARAH HARKER

RESIDENTS who live near a busy road are demanding that Warrington Borough Council takes urgent action to install traffic calming measures at an accident black spot.

Almost one year ago, 86-year-old Doris Clarke, of Minerva Close, was killed as she attempted to cross Loushers Lane on her way to the shops.

In November this year, a child was knocked down and injured at the same spot.

Residents fear that another tragedy will occur unless steps are taken immediately to install a pelican crossing and speed bumps.

Clr Ted Finnegan has spearheaded a campaign to petition the council.

He said: "To use the words of the police officer who attended the accident scene when nine-year-old Talisha Smith was run over, Loushers Lane is like a rat run, a conduit between south and east and north and west.

"It's time for less study and more doing in terms of Warrington Borough Council getting the message and quickly installing a pelican crossing to avoid more accidents 1,035 people say get it done."

People living close to the lane fear that unless the issue is addressed, more tragic accidents will occur.

Barbara Kellett has lived on Secker Avenue, just off Loushers Lane, for more than 36 years and has seen first-hand the increase in traffic. She said: "The lane has almost turned into a main road. Something needs to be done straight away it's no use after the next accident has occurred. We shouldn't have to wait for another tragedy to happen."

The residents handed over a petition to the Mayor, Clr Sheila Woodyatt MBE, on Friday, urging the council to install a pelican crossing and rumble strips to slow down traffic.