BOTHER ON THE BRIDGE - DANGEROUS DRIVERS

People are jumping the lights on Weymouth's town bridge according to the local council which it says is illegal and dangerous. When the bridge is about to be lifted, lights flash then the barriers come down. But Weymouth and Portland Borough Council says it's caught several drivers on CCTV jumping the lights. It's now given the footage to the police.

Councillor Christine James, who looks after transport issues says: "All drivers are aware of the basic rules of the road, which includes not driving through a red light. CCTV cameras overlooking the Town Bridge have number plate recognition technology, and any footage of drivers breaking the law by driving through the warning lights will be handed straight to the police."

The council warns that driving through a signal to stop is illegal and the law recognises the bridge warning lights in the same way as a red traffic light. It is also warns drivers jumping the lights make it dangerous for pedestrians and bridge operators becuase of the high speeds used by drivers in order to cross the bridge. They might also damage their carsas the metal barriers lower. 

Christine James warns: "This Council is not a soft touch when it comes to protecting the safety of residents.There have been several incidents where bridge operators and pedestrians have narrowly avoided being hit by vehicles speeding over the bridge to avoid the barriers I'd like to remind road users that no matter how much of a rush they are in, it's never worth taking the risk.

"Drivers who break the rules will be identified by CCTV, which may result in a court summons, leading to a fine and possible confiscation of the vehicle."

The bridge lifts every two hours in summer, starting at 0800. There's an extra lift at 2100 in the evening. So there's a choice, sit it out safely and watch the bridge go up and down. Or perhaps find a differnt route.