VILLAGERS who were devastated by the death of a young boy in a road accident are close to winning their campaign to lower speed limits in the area.

Four-year-old Thomas Drew died last April after he was in collision with a car outside Hindlip CE Primary School in Fernhill Heath. He was with his mother on his way to pick up his sister.

And while speed was not a factor in the incident - a coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death - it sparked a massive community campaign to cut the speed limit from 40mph to 30mph on the A38 through the village.

Hundreds signed a petition and now it seems campaigners' efforts have paid off, with proposals for the alterations due for release soon.

If there aren't any objections, the new measures could be put in force by September.

One of those who has been striving for traffic calming measures is John Jeffrey, chairman of highways at North Claines Parish Council and governor at Hindlip school.

"A lot of people have been waiting for this decision for a long time and we are delighted by it," he said.

"The death of young Thomas was a tragedy which we must try to stop happening again.

"I think everyone is agreed that we need some major traffic calming measures in the villages, and lowering the speed limit would be a good start.

"Other measures already in force include fitting guard rails outside the school and upgrading the lighting in the village to make it easier for motorists and pedestrians to see."

Angela Weston, chairman of governors, added: "Lowering the speed limit is imperative to the safety of our pupils and their families.

"Nearly all schools in Worcestershire have a speed limit of 30mph and it is high time our children were protected this way too."

Geoff Cox, highways partnership unit manager for Worcestershire County Council, added: "There has been a lot of pressure from local people to make changes since the death of Thomas Drew last year.

"We are hoping that if all goes to plan, the 30mph limit will be implemented in the next four or five months."