SPEED camera signs have been removed from an accident blackspot following a miscommunication by police.

Last week, signs were installed at the Hunters Lodge junction on the A35, between Axminster and Lyme Regis. Campaigners were hopeful that cameras would follow, after a second fatal crash in the space of three weeks.

Initially, both the Highways Agency and Devon and Cornwall Police told The News they had not installed the camera signs - and they were removed by the Highways Agency. But after a 'miscommunication', it was found that a member of the police force had actioned the signs going up.

Inspector Richard Pryce, from Devon & Cornwall Police, said: “It would appear that someone at the speed detection unit in Exeter erected the signs after a bit of a miscommunication.

“Last year, speed data was taken in the area and it was found that there was possibly a speed problem along that stretch of road. But any changes take time. We will have to do a detailed risk assessment for any changes and there is a process that needs to be followed.

“It looks like there could be potential for future action by officers with handheld devices or an enforcement van. There are lots of things we have to look at before any action is decided, including how any action would have to fit into the officers’ other sites, how it would be enforced and to ensure the safety of the road is not affected.”

Joy Raymond, who has campaigned for safety measures along the stretch of road believes it is disappointing the signs have been removed.

"I'm very disappointed the signs have been taken down" she said. "Let's hope the authorities take note.

"A lot of people were happy to see them and I hope the real thing to slow the traffic follows shortly."