THE parents of Radcliffe teenager Natalie Danielle Pickwick Jones joined 180 protestors during a poignant candlelit vigil at a notorious accident blackspot in the town.

The peaceful and dignified protest last Friday night was designed to highlight the dangers of speeding traffic on Bolton Road and the need for safety measures, such as cameras, to be introduced.

The demonstration was organised by the parents of 15-year-old Natalie, David Jones and Elaine Pickwick of Olsberg Close, Radcliffe. In February, the Radcliffe High pupil died following a collision with a Toyota MR2 in Bolton Road, outside the Chef's Pantry sandwich shop. Last month, driver Paul Madeley (31), of Grindrod Street, Radcliffe was cleared of causing death by dangerous driving by a jury at Bolton Crown Court.

Heartbroken parents David and Elaine gathered with friends, family and supporters at Friday night's demonstration at the corner of Canute Street. Some of those taking part carried placards and banners with messages such as 'Stop this death trap' and 'How many more broken hearts?'

Mr Jones said: "Around 160-180 people took part, from young children to people in their 80s. Like us, they are incensed at the amount and the speed of traffic on Bolton Road. Hopefully, we've now got a meeting with Bury Council and the mayor, Councillor Barry Briggs, also wants to have a chat with us. So, some good will come out of this.

"We held our peaceful demonstration and candlelit vigil between 6.30pm and 7.30pm and lined both sides of the pavement and adults stood on the crossing every couple of minutes to make our point. We also gave out RoadPeace leaflets to people who were in total agreement with our protest."

Mr Jones added: "We want a speed camera set up in Bolton Road. This is a lethal stretch of road. Residents we have spoken to say that cars are speeding up to 70mph and 80mph at night when the limit is 30mph. We've seen it ourselves.

"We have got the full backing of the police and we won't rest until we get something done. We had a smashing turnout at our peaceful demonstration. If nothing is done, then we are prepared to continue our campaign."