Action call on route where man, 22, died

Residents campaigning for speed restrictions at a Staffordshire accident blackspot have launched a petition to fight their cause.

Nathan Taylor, from Newtown, and Helen Snape, from Great Wyrley, launched their campaign last month after a 22-year-old Rugeley man Ashley Burton, of Brereton Road, was killed in a car crash which happened on the Orbital ring road, Eastern Way, Cannock.

Two of Nathan's friends, Josh Beaven and Alex Newell, both aged 19, from Great Wyrley, were in another car involved in the crash and both spent time in hospital.

In December, van driver David Roberts, also from Brereton Road, Rugeley, was killed when he collided with a HGV on Lodge Lane – which is near the Orbital island. Campaigners say that, while the crashes may not have been caused by speeding, now is the time to act because public attention is focused on the road.

Mr Taylor said: "The simple question is – would people rather a family member came home with a fine and three points or that they never saw them again?"

"Support for the campaign has been unbelievable. A lot of people are saying enough is enough." The calls have been backed by Chase MP Tony Wright and local councillors, and 2,000 people have joined an internet site camapaign.

Mrs Snape said: "The road is a death trap and, whether or not speeding caused the crash, now is the time to act while people are paying attention."Helen and Nathan are also trying to organise meetings with local police to discuss their plans.To support the campaign visit: www.ipetitions.com/petition/putspeedcamerasontheorbital