A RYEDALE grandmother who has been campaigning for road safety measures near her home has welcomed plans to improve a dangerous section of road.

Caroline Harper, who lives, in Ings Lane, Pickering, was spurred into action after her granddaughter was almost killed by a passing motorist.

A motorist crushed a toy pram which three-year-old Annalise was pushing.

Mrs Harper collected more than 120 signatures on a petition and wrote to the council demanding action.

The section of road she is concerned about is Firthlands Road and the junction with Goslipgate - a quiet residential area of the town. Though the road is residential motorists are increasingly using it as a shortcut.

With no footpath on part of the road, she says, pedestrians are repeatedly put at risk from speeding motorists.

Mrs Harper and other residents have called on the council to install a footpath and install a one-way system to restrict car use

Roads chiefs from North Yorkshire County Council said today that they have now initiated a plan to introduce a temporary one-way system, while funding is being sought for a footpath.

"It is good news, though I think the footpath should be made a priority," she said.

"The one-way system should reduce the amount of traffic using it.

"Annalise was behind me with a toy pushchair as I was pushing my 18-month-old grandson Cameron in his buggy.

"All of a sudden a car came round the corner and there was a big bang. I thought Annalise had been killed."

North Yorkshire County Council's area traffic manager Tony Wright said he was aware of residents' concerns.

"The one-way traffic system will be put in place shortly and we are seeking funding for a footpath," he said.

Updated: 10:39 Saturday, May 25, 2002