VILLAGERS are calling for a halt to speeding traffic which they fear could cost lives.

People in Holcombe, near Ramsbottom, said action must be taken over cars and lorries speeding through the village centre.

They said the lack of traffic regulation was "an accident waiting to happen"

The stark message was given by Holcombe residents to Les Watts, Bury Council's highways spokesman, as he addressed Ramsbottom's Area Board meeting.

Residents pointed out that at the village centre the road was very narrow, and down to below the width of one lane in places.

Concerned villagers asked Mr Watts if speed cameras or other traffic calming measures could be implemented.

However, he said that as there had been no accidents involving injury on that stretch, the council could not justify recommending speed cameras. He said: "I have to think of the borough as a whole. This is not an accident blackspot."

Local councillor and Ramsbottom shopkeeper David Higgin, of DM Higgin's furniture store, said: "Preventon is more important - we must look at this area again. The road in the village centre has a blind spot. As you turn in the village centre you just can not see your exit."

Ramsbottom Coun Barry Theckston pointed out was that many lorries used the route as a short cut up to the M65.

After a rowdy exchange of views, Les Watts agreed that the area would be monitored and that he would liaise with residents.