RESIDENTS of Thormanby were so disturbed by the number of accidents on the A19 that they put up a giant coffin sign to shock drivers into slowing down.

Now Hambleton District Council is threatening prosecution if the impromptu placard is not removed.

Such an approach seems a little heavy handed. It would surely make more sense if the authorities promised to replace the 'roadside coffin' with an official sign carrying the same message.

For to live on a terribly busy road is to wait in fear for the next accident. Under these conditions, it is easy to understand why villagers felt the need to make such a striking notice.

Updated: 09:52 Friday, April 13, 2001