9 volunteers from Ely have become an instant success with a new Speedwatch scheme supported by Cambridgeshire Constabulary.
This morning, 6 of those volunteers set up on Witchford Road and even the local residents came out to thank them as there was an instant noticeable effect on speed and noise.
While we were there, the board only flashed twice, one to indicate 31 and the other 34. Witchford Road is notorious for speeding and while permanent speed boards are in operation, this has done nothing to quash speed along that road.
Accompanying the volunteers was Mike Brookes, Forcewide Watch Co-ordinator for Cambs Police. He told us that 10 areas in Ely have been highlighted and that all 9 volunteers are now fully trained and insured to carry out the work. They are also free to monitor any one of the 10 spots at any time of day and report findings to the Police.
All Speedwatch locations when being monitored are highlighted, so the idea is not to catch people but to act as a deterrent against speeding.
Ely Speedwatch is looking for volunteers to give as much or as little time as available. Every person will be trained and once completed (approximately takes 1 hour locally) will be insured to also take part in this vital community project.
To apply as a volunteer email: speedwatch@cambs.pnn.police.uk. You can also use the same email to highlight other potential areas in Ely that may require a Speedwatch from time to time.
