County road deaths up almost 50%

The number of people killed in road collisions in Cambridgeshire is up by almost 50% on last year.

Statistics show that since the start of the year 51 people have been killed in collisions, compared to 35 people for the same period in 2006.

Pc Tony Barrios, casualty reduction officer, said: "This huge increase in fatalities is extremely alarming."

Police are now targeting speeding drivers which they say contribute to increased road deaths.

'Lives at risk'

"Road users increase each year bringing a slight increase in serious and fatal collisions but an increase of almost 50% is very concerning," Pc Barrios said.

"Sadly the vast majority of collisions are caused by driver error so if we are going to reduce casualties on the roads motorists must stick to road safety rules.

"There are still some motorists driving in a dangerous manner through inappropriate use of speed, using mobile phones and not wearing seat belts.

"These drivers are risking their own lives and the lives of others."