MADAM, I was interested in reading the letter published in the Ross Gazette, (March 7th) querying why there are so many road safety signs, and coloured road markings in evidence on the A49, between Ross and Hereford, with the writer querying why reductions in speed limits are not contemplated

In this regard, it should be noted that this stretch of road is notorious for many road traffic accidents (I suspect one of the worst in the country), with few safe overtaking places. I in fact have personal experience of being present at such an accident, when my father-in-law (a Ross man) and a motorcyclist (a serving member of the SAS) were killed, and my mother-in-law seriously injured, at the Laskett Lane junction, near Much Birch, in 2008.

I have, since then, been requesting that the Highways Agency, which is responsible for this stretch of road, not Herefordshire Council, to undertake works at this dangerous crossroads junction. This is finally being undertaken at this very moment, with the introduction of coloured and 'no overtaking' road markings .

Whilst I suggested to them a reduction in speed limit (from 60mph to 50mph, or even 40mph) might be considered, I could see the Highway Agency's point that, such a reduction would not necessary make the junction any safer, and it would need to be enforced, which it seldom is. This is in fact the case with many of the A49 junctions, with minor roads, between Ross and Hereford, and such signage, and road markings, is at least an attempt to slow traffic down, probably has more effect, in practice, than the introduction of lower speed limits

Finally, as regards the Laskett Lane junction, you will note, from the photograph, the presence of a large sign, advertising the New Harp Pub in Hoarwithy, put up, on adjoining land, by the pub owner and, I understand, now subject to planning enforcement action by Herefordshire Council. Whilst I appreciate the pub owner's attempt to "drum up" more business, I for one would concur with action being taken to remove this signage in this location, given its accident history, (which he is no doubt unaware) and the fact that it provides an added distraction to drivers at this most dangerous of crossroads.

Mark Robinson, Sellack