Speeds of almost 70mph recorded in a 30mph zone have sparked a group of residents to take action and call for a speed-killing measure.

Fed-up residents along Buckshaft Road in Cinderford called in the police to help tackle the issue of speeding in the area after a neighbour's car was allegedly hit by a driver who fled the scene without a trace.

During a 13-day period between March and April this year, a black box device recording speeds was fixed to a lamppost by PCSO Sue Pritchard who had previously monitored the area with a speed gun.

Results show that in one incident a driver was driving at 69mph.

Last Sunday, as part of the Operation Wheeled Respect, six vehicles were caught speeding and pulled over and given an educational package. One of the six drivers tested positive in a breath test.

One of the campaigners, Douglas Belassie said: "The results make for an interesting read. We are looking to attend the next town council meeting with our findings in the hope that they will do something positive.

"We need a long-term measure in place to ensure motorists adhere to the speed limit. A sign which flashes with the speed motorists are driving as they pass would be appropriate as it prompts people to slow up if they are exceeding the limit.

"This has been an ongoing problem since last November but no doubt it has been going on longer before this. Far too many driving along this road are driving over 40mph which is really dangerous considering this is a residential area where children tend to ride their push bikes. Something more needs to be done before it's too late."

Chairman of Gloucestershire County Council, Cllr Graham Morgan (Lab, Cinderford) said: "I recommend the residents speak to the PCSO and the Road Safety Partnership and get a speed 'repeater' sign which reminds motorists of the speed limit.

"The issue is really down to local policing but we all know that their services are strained due to cutbacks. You'd be surprised how 'nicking' people for speeding will discourage others from committing the same offence – if the road becomes known for catching people then it'll make others think twice about doing the same."