Market Drayton road safety group to disband after lack of support
Market Drayton's road safety group has disbanded, although volunteers can still come forward to try to maintain a civilian road safety presence in the town.
The decision was announced following the group's last meeting on November 27, with "changing circumstances" and reduced numbers blamed for the move.
Secretary Roy Claydon said the Market Drayton & District Road Safety Group had a proud history of helping the town but was "no longer able to continue" in its current form.
He said: "This decision has been difficult to make but it has been recognised for some considerable length of time that unless there was an influx of new members coupled with a local desire to maintain its existence, the group would be unable to continue.
"This is mainly due in part to decreasing numbers, [with] 30 years service by the current chairperson and 42 years by the current secretary."
But he added: "If there is a serious desire for the continuation of the work there will be a six-month period when any volunteers can come forward and it is suggested that this could be done in conjunction with the Market Drayton Community Enterprise."
Market Drayton mayor Mark Whittle said the campaigners had also helped communities in Loggerheads, Wem and elsewhere in Shropshire.
Influence
"I would like to formally thank each and every one of them for their sterling work over many years," he said.
"The only reason the school crossings in the town are in the good condition they are is the road safety group having an influence.
"They were the forerunner of many other similar groups. It will be a shame to see them go."
The town council still owns a mobile speed camera that was used by the group.
The Market Drayton & District Road Safety Group was formed in the 1950s, and has lobbied for improvements and adaptations for the area's motorists and pedestrians.
Mr Claydon went on: "We have endeavoured to maintain our interest in matters of importance to the local residents but needless to say some matters still remain outstanding as work in progress.
"We trust that some of these will be progressed by the town council wherever possible. The speed monitoring systems operated by volunteers will still be used around the area."
To get in touch with the group, call the Market Drayton town hall on 01630 653364.
