THE area covered by the speed camera system in Welland is being extended further.

Mobile speed cameras will now operate on Marlbank Road, the main route from Welland to British Camp and Malvern Wells.

This is in addition to the mobile cameras already covering Drake Street and Gloucester Road.

The cameras came into operation in Welland earlier this year. Data collected in December 2004 showed 75 per cent of traffic was exceeding the speed limit, with 15 per cent of drivers travelling above 40mph.

Residents have been campaigning for traffic calming measures for a number of years. Earlier this year, they took matters into their own hands and purchased a sign that flashes a speed warning to approaching drivers.

The sign, on Gloucester Road near the village shop, was bought after a fundraising campaign by the Friends of Welland and Little Mal-vern Parish.

"The important thing is to slow traffic down as it comes through the village. That's what people want and hopefully the speed cameras will help to do that," said parish councillor Roger Cousins.

Safety Camera Partnership, which operates the cameras, said the speed motorists travelled through Welland was unacceptable.

"Reducing speeds will make the village a safer place for both pedestrians and motorists," said spokes-man Vicki Bristow.