RESIDENTS are concerned drivers will kill themselves or pedestrians if nothing is done to tackle speeding on a Malvern road.

They say cars are racing around a tight bend on Longridge Road and are alarmed that there is no footpath for people to navigate safely around what is essentially a blind corner.

Martin Lawrence, co-ordinator of Malvern Neighbourhood Watch, is championing the cause on residents’ behalf.

As well as enforcement to stop speeding drivers in their tracks, he would like to see a new footpath created on common land at the side of the road so people can walk round the corner safely and without fearing for their lives.

Mr Lawrence said he had heard several concerns and so went door-todoor along Longridge Road asking people about their problems.

His efforts have resulted in a petition of more than 40 names, which he has sent to the police, Worcestershire County Council’s Highways Department and Malvern Hills Conservators, which owns the common land running alongside the road.

“Everyone I spoke to flagged it up as a problem and said they wanted something done about it,” he said.

“It is supposed to be a 30mph limit but I have stood there and watched people speed past.

“I think some drivers see it as a ‘fun’ cross-country route but I am extremely worried about pedestrians, especially people with pushchairs, coming face-to-face with cars on that corner.”

Sgt Ian Blanchard, of Malvern police, said he had received the petition and was aware of Mr Lawrence and local residents’ concerns.

“We will now pass it on to the Safer Roads Partnership and the highways department who will look into the matter and see whether it is possible to do anything,” he said.

Stephen Bound, director of Malvern Hills Conservators, has also received the petition and said he would be taking a closer look at the situation in Longridge Road.

Jon Fraser, highways manager at Worcestershire County Council, said: “We’re happy to hear from residents and as soon as we receive the petition we will investigate the situation and respond formally.”