Caerphilly County Borough Council has promised steps to tackle the threat of motorists speeding through a village, after it was contacted by the Local Democracy Service.

According to residents, Twyncarn Road, in Pontywaun is frequently used by joyriders and seen as a ‘rat run’ by car users.

One resident has even made his own road sign in an attempt to slow drivers down – because there are none along the 30mph road.

Dave Richards, 73, made the sign with his daughter and wants official ones erected to tell drivers not to speed. Concerned with the safety of his four-year-old granddaughter along the road, he described the speeding as an accident waiting to happen and contacted Caerphilly Observer with his worries.

His wife was killed in a road accident 12 years ago and Mr Richards, who has previously tried to set up an area speed watch group, said: “Simple things like speeding can change your whole life.”

Referring to his campaign for road signs, he added: “One thing I’ve learnt is to not give up.”

Another resident of Twyncarn Road, Sue Bishop said: “The way people drive around here is bonkers.”

She added: “I just want the children and people who live here to be safe.”

When contacted by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Caerphilly County Borough Council promised to conduct a speed survey in Twyncarn Road following the summer holidays.

A council spokesperson said: “Once the speed survey has been undertaken, we will be able to assess the results in accordance with the council’s Speed Management Strategy.

“It would also be appropriate for residents to contact the local police regarding the concern over both vehicle speed and underage bikers without helmets, as the police are responsible for the enforcement of all moving traffic offences.”

Councillor Jamie Pritchard, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Property, said: “I’ve made contact with the Mr Richards and local councillor Julian Simmonds to discuss the issues raised about speeding in Pontywaun. I’m keen to have a further conversation with all parties.”

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