FAMILIES living in Winchester’s St Cross Road are campaigning to have their speed limit reduced to 30mph.

Residents with homes right on the edge of the city claim many drivers exceed the 40mph limit, sometimes travelling at up to 70mph.

And they say walkers find it hard to walk along pavements overgrown with brambles as traffic thunders past.

Cyclist Peter James says he was once hit on the head by the wing mirror of a passing truck, and was forced off the road by a white Astra several weeks ago.

“The car overtook me very closely and shoved me off the road,” said the 36-year-old, who also lives in St Cross Road.

“I got a lot of abuse from the passenger, who was effing and blinding at me.

“I was very shaken up and had a sweet tea when I got to work.

“I would certainly feel safer if the cars were going slower.

“Cycling commuters risk their lives daily.”

The number of cyclists using the road has risen in recent months after the opening of the already-popular Hockley Viaduct route.

St Cross Road resident Beverley Morgan said: “The road here is dangerous for cyclists who knowingly illegally use the footpath because they are fearful of their lives.

“Hardly any car drivers keep to the 40mph restriction.

“I believe there is critical need to provide a cycle track on the west side of St Cross Road between Five Bridges Road and the roundabout to the south of us.

“The majority of cyclists I speak to agree but don't know how to take it forward.

“I think we have to wait for people to be killed for something to happen.”

Hampshire County Council was approached for a comment but did not respond to our query.