INSTALLING speed cameras in Thamesdown Drive is something we fully support, say Wiltshire Police.

The remarks come after the death of 73-year-old Blunsdon woman Valerie Affleck who tragically passed away last week following a crash on the notorious North Swindon road in early August.

Police have said they cannot at this stage confirm whether Ms Affleck’s death was a result of speeding, but the incident has once again placed the issue of safety in Thamesdown Drive firmly on the agenda.

It also comes just a week after a motorist was caught by police doing 97mph on the busy road.

A spokesman from Wiltshire Police said: “We understand Swindon Borough Council are considering the installation of cameras in the area and this is something we would support.”

The Advertiser reported in May that the council were “considering installing CCTV cameras” in Thamesdown Drive after persistent protests from residents and a recommendation from Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson.

Mr Macpherson, who chairs the Road Safety Partnership group, said that he and chief constable Mike Veale had supported the implementation of cameras and had been discussing various funding strategies.

“To have such cameras directed at traffic light offences as well as speeding offences would be the goal,” he said.

But Swindon Borough Council are yet to make a decision on whether cameras will be installed.

A council spokesman said: “The police remain responsible for enforcement of speeding and red light running offences but, following discussions at the Wiltshire and Swindon Road Safety Partnership, the council is currently considering installing CCTV at key locations on Thamesdown Drive.

“This will allow driver behaviour to be monitored and images passed to the police for further action should an incident take place.”

As well as speeding, red light-jumping has been cited by residents as an equally pressing problem.

Wiltshire Police have reminded people to be vigilant when using the county’s roads and have vowed to continue conducting speed checks on a regular basis.

A spokesman said: “All too often, poor judgement, self-discipline and impatience, coupled with excessive speed or neglect of traffic regulations all play a part in road traffic collisions in general.

“We routinely conduct random speed checks along Thamesdown Drive, which was highlighted during an operation in the area last week.

"We will continue to do this with the support of the Tri Force Roads Policing Unit.”