A RECENT report has revealed that as deer populations increase throughout Britain more and more are being killed on the roads.

Some deer have inflicted lots of damage on vehicles, resulting in motorists submitting large insurance claims.

It has also been reported that very many human fatalities have been caused by collisions with deer. Those reacting to these worrying statistics are suggesting the provision of more warning signs and a publicity programme to underline the problems.

Most accidents, especially on country roads, are a direct result of motorists driving too fast.

Early in January I saw the body of a roe deer killed on a road near Chatburn. I imagine there must also have been significant damage to the car.

The roe deer is native to Britain and is the smallest of the family. In recent years the population has increased rapidly.

The only other species of deer to be found in East Lancashire is the Sika deer which is found around the Bolton-by-Bowland area. This is a large deer closely related to the native red deer (which does not occur in East Lancashire).

The Sika was introduced by Lord Ribblesdale in the 19th century. He had an extensive deer park around Gisburn which has now long gone. The Sika deer, however, still remain in the area and can wander over quite substantial distances.