A DISABLED Leigh father is appealing for support in his campaign for safer roads.

Andrew Booth was involved in a serious road accident which left him disabled and for 18 months has been calling for improved pedestrian safety measures in Leigh -- particularly in the Firs Lane area.

The Gorse Walk man has focused mainly on the busy route from Leigh to Golborne via Plank Lane and Slag Lane. He claims the absence of crossings of any sort between the Atherleigh Way roundabout and Golborne High School is a danger to pedestrians.

He said: "Firs Lane has many elderly people's homes and crossing the road is difficult for them, as well as for children going to school. Although there are school crossing patrols, they aren't there during school holidays. With three young children of my own I know how worrying it can be."

Andrew, was involved in a serious road accident 15 years ago and is registered disabled as a result. A second aspect of his campaign involves pushing for safer driving by motorists.

"Not many stick to the 30 mph speed limit and those who do suffer from 'tailgaters', which can be very scary. I find myself pulling over to allow them to overtake rather than be forced to exceed the limit."

Bad habit

In an attempt to deter drivers from this bad habit Andrew intends to follow up a government idea by designing rear bumper stickers asking people to stay a safe distance away and slow down. Andrew has researched the idea carefully and hopes to be able to make it a reality.

"I have received widespread support from Leigh MP Andy Burnham, local councillors, local schools and the old people's homes. Acorn Printers on Leigh Road, have offered to do me a great discounted deal on producing the stickers. I'm very grateful for the support I have received so far, but I hope to involve more local people, as it is they who will ultimately be effected."

Andrew has decided simple eye-catching stickers will be more effective and intends to make them fluorescent yellow or orange with a simple message such as 'Speed Kills' or 'Tailgating Kills'.

Mr Burnham said: "I applaud Mr Booth's efforts to encourage safer and more responsible driving in our area and have no hesitation in offering my support."

A council spokesperson said: "There is government criteria for judging whether a road is eligible for a pedestrian crossing. Firs Lane does not have enough pedestrians to warrant a crossing.

"We would obviously encourage anyone to become involved in road safety, the best way might be through local schools."

Andrew's website, entitled Leigh Road Safety Awareness Group (LeighRSAG), aims to provide information about general road safety as well as local issues, it introduces the group and outlines its intentions, it also offers a children's page.

Anyone wanting to find out more about the campaign can visit the site at http://members.tripod.co.uk/leighrsag or contact Andrew on 01942 514826 or e-mail him at leighrsag@blueyonder.co.uk