VILLAGERS have won their campaign for a 30mph speed limit through their village, after years of concerns over high speed traffic.

In the past, cars could legally travel at 60mph through West Layton, near Richmond.

But following a campaign by residents, with the help of Richmondshire District Councillor Michael Heseltine, new speed restrictions have now been introduced.

Coun Heseltine said: “The situation before was totally unacceptable to local people, who have had concerns about this for many years.

“Cars coming off the busy A66 road would travel at high speeds through the village which was very dangerous.

“There was huge support for this measure despite West Layton being such a tiny village, and I’m sure the residents will be delighted that their campaign has been successful.”

North Yorkshire County Councillor John Fort, executive member for highways, said: “We received requests from local people to take action to reduce the potential for accidents, and with the support of North Yorkshire Police we were pleased to be able to introduce this speed restriction.”

Coun Heseltine added: “Local residents have felt strongly about this for a long time and I do hope these measures will help to solve the problem once and for all."