ACTION is being demanded to cut traffic speed in Redworth, near Darlington.

Villagers fear that motorists driving too fast through the village could cause death or serious injury.

The main road into Redworth has a 60mph restriction.

Darlington Borough Council put up signs requesting drivers keep to 30mph, but villagers say they are ignored.

Worried residents packed into the village hall on Friday for a public meeting.

They unanimously agreed to start a petition demanding acton from the council and police.

James Wilkinson, who has lived in Redworth for 29 years, said he believed only a fatality would get a response.

"We are deeply concerned that the lives of the people of Redworth are being put at risk," he said.

Parish councillor Les Blades said: "For years we have been told that there have been no deaths on the road. But we don't want to wait until someone is killed. People can drive at 60mph through the village, and nothing is being done to slow them down."

Darlington borough councillor Gerald Lee, whose Heighington ward includes Redworth, plans to take up the issue with the local authority.

"There is an incredibly strong feeling of frustration within the village that no one is listening to them," he said.

"The council, to their credit, did introduce some measures, but they have had no effect."

The petition calls for a 30mph restriction to be imposed in Redworth, and double white "no overtaking" lines leading into the village, until a bypass is created.

Villagers also want traffic lights installed to allow residents of Mill Lane and Surtees Road easier access to the main road.

A Darlington Borough Council spokesman said a 30mph limit would not be enforceable because the S-bend in the road would not provide an effective straight line of sight.

But he said the council would welcome representations from villagers to discuss what other action might be taken.