JCB TAKES DRIVING SEAT TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGNS

SPEED AWARENESS initiatives in two East Staffordshire villages are stepping up a gear thanks to support from JCB.

The digger giant is helping fund solar powered Speed Indicator Devices (SIDS) on the main routes through Stubwood and Ellastone villages close to its World Headquarters at Rocester.

The road safety signs, which use radar to detect and display a vehicle’s speed, have been installed by Denstone and Ellastone Parish Councils, each with £5,000 support from JCB.

JCB Chief Operating Officer Mark Turner said: “As one of the area’s major employers we are determined to help make the roads in our local villages as safe as possible for the community. Irrespective of whether it’s local people, JCB employees, or drivers going to and from Alton Towers, speeding in our neighbouring villages is not acceptable.”

Denstone and Ellastone Parish Council Chairs Jessica Turner and Robert Watkin said: “Over the years we have become increasingly worried about motorists speeding through our villages; for a long time it has felt like an accident waiting to happen.

“The SIDS signs are a great road safety resource and are definitely a step in the right direction towards ensuring drivers slow down and put safety first. We are very grateful for JCB’s support in helping us tackle the problem and making our roads safer for everyone.”