RESIDENTS in Twyford are calling for a new pedestrian crossing amid claims the main road is too dangerous.

Dozens of people turned out at an exhibition held last week (Wednesday) at the village parish hall to see the options drawn up by Hampshire County Council.

The first option includes a puffin crossing where the bus stop is along High Street, near the school, and the second option is an enhancement of the existing crossing near Old Refectory Lane.

The third option involves making no changes and having the only crossing at the crossroads with Hazeley Road.

But villagers have said something must be done to allow pedestrians to cross the main road safely.

Matthew White, of Church Lane, said: “We have to cross the road every day on foot with two children. We have been nearly killed. One car stops coming from one direction and then there’s still cars coming in the other direction. Then there’ll be a motorbike coming through the middle. They absolutely scream through.

“It’s just so dangerous. Our children have to cross that road. We definitely want a scheme in place where there are lights but we want them in the safest place. Children are going to get killed; it’s horrendous.”

His wife, Kate White, added: “They just don’t stop to let you pass. On one occasion I had my children with me and two other children and it was almost impossible to cross the road.”

Paula Edwards, transport team leader for Hampshire County Council, said Hampshire highways would make a decision after the consultation ended on October 3.

She said: “We have been really impressed by the turnout we have had and there’s been a lot of interest in the options. But it’s really up to the people as to what they think is the best one. We will be looking to start early in the New Year with the aim of finishing by the end of the financial year.”

Diana Stewart-Ross, of High Street, said: “All I want really is for people to slow down. They roar up the hill. It’s so dangerous.”