TRADERS claim a roundabout is a potential death trap, after a woman's legs were crushed by a bus.

Pedestrians regularly cross the dual carriageway at Worcester's Cathedral roundabout - 50 yards from traffic lights.

Martin Moore, of Inspiration hairdressers, in College Street, rushed out to the incident when he heard the victim's screams.

"At first we didn't think it was human," said Mr Moore.

After seeing the woman's legs wedged against the 3ft wall by the rear of a First Midland Red bus, he and another bystander held her up for about 15 minutes to stop her sliding under the vehicle.

The woman, in her 40s, who was in shock and unable to move her legs, was treated by paramedics while fire crews used inflatable bags to free her.

"Day after day we see people standing on the small kerb and crossing the road there with traffic coming round the bend," said Mr Moore. "I've been here 23 years and I'm amazed this has never happened before."

It was time for the walkway to be redesigned, he said.

Despite the accident - which caused gridlock during Friday's rush hour - pedestrians were still walking on the road this morning.

"The roundabout is one of our greatest concerns," said Amanda Savidge, Royal Worcester Porcelain Works visitor centre manager.

"It's so easy to just nip across the road but cars do go quickly there. We look forward to more safety measures being introduced."

Anna Walton, manager of The Krunch, in College Street, had witnessed problems at the roundabout before.

"Many pedestrians are guilty of crossing the road and walking along that bit of pavement when they shouldn't.

"But traffic is also a major issue. I've seen cars end up facing the other way because it's wet and they're going too fast."

The city council has been talking with businesses about plans to remodel the island.

West Mercia police said they were unable to release any further details on the woman's condition, although she is believed to have suffered leg injuries including a fractured femur and tibia.

The police want witnesses to call them on 08457 444888, quoting 300S/250403.