I READ a back issue of the Star (August 24) concerning the road deaths/hazards on the East Lancs Road with Dave Watts and Pat Martinez-Williams in discussion with the Highways Agency, whose sole concern is this road. I fully agree with their concerns.

Using this road regularly the two "chicken runs" that need addressing are at the Catchdale Moss and Blindfood Road intersections and the crossing at Haydock near the now defunct diner and petrol station. If the Agency isn't prepared to close off these sections due to access for residents/farms etc then the only possible solution is a speed restriction to say 40 or 50 mph backed up by the infamous "gatso". As a regular motorist around the outskirts of London, on similar dual carriageways most have a 50 mph limit on them with hazard road markings and regular photographic sessions for passing motorists. And just to be further 'sneaky' in some sections the limit drops to 40.

Those of you who are familiar with the downhill speed trial of the section towards Blindfoot and Catchdale the average speed appears to be around 80 mph giving no chance for anyone crossing added to that there is a road dip before one enters the St Helens bound carriageway at Catchdale Moss Road. A quick glance to the left will find an 'empty' road full of someone's front end in a second. A limit will at least give a motorist crossing some chance. I would be interested in the accident figures and fatalities at these two junctions.

As to the Haydock section apart from the "will they won't they cross" debate, an approaching motorist always finds that as you drive along in the outside lane the car in front suddenly decides he/she is turning right across the Manchester bound carriageway, usually with no, or a late, signal, which often produces following cars heading in all directions to avoid a "shunt". With the inside lane "full" a "shunt" is what you will get.

A variation of this "chicken game" at this intersection is trying to avoid the boot/van side/trailer hanging over your lane. An added problem in this section is that motorists, such as me, who has travelled at a constant high speed up the motorways from the south of London (Birmingham excepted) needs to adjust speed and quick, as there will be an accident waiting for you just over a mile from the M6 island.

As the delay continues, how many more people are to be killed and injured at these spots before anything is done? At least our councillors and MP are trying to do something. Has anyone else a better suggestion?

Bill Bradbury, Clifton Road, Billinge