WORK has begun to improve safety at a "death-trap" junction on the A35.

Highways England is carrying out the work at the Hunters Lodge junction between Charmouth and Axminster, on the Dorset-Devon border.

Campaigners called for safety measures on the stretch of road after a series of crashes.

The A35 junction, at the turning point with Lyme Road near the Hunters Lodge Inn, claimed the lives of two elderly holidaymakers in 2013 when their Vauxhall Corsa was involved in a collision with a Renault van.

After the crash, David Parker, the owner of Sea Tree House, described the major road to Lyme Regis as a "death trap".

There was renewed momentum for something to be done after a 78-year-old man from Poole was killed in another crash in June 2015.

Traffic lights were ruled out by Highways England after a public meeting was held.

The 11-week improvement scheme started on Monday (3) and will aim to improve safety for motorists and also enhance crossing facilities for pedestrians.

The works are expected to cost around £560,000,

A Highways England spokesman, said: "Included in the work will be reconfigured lane markings, a signalised pedestrian crossing, the installation of vehicle activated signs in both directions, a new, high-friction road surface and signage.

"For the majority of the scheme, drivers will be able to travel normally on the A35, with two weeks of full overnight closures in place between Bridport and Axminster from May 30."

During the two weeks while the road is closed overnight, other routine maintenance work will be carried out. The overnight closures will be in place from 8pm to 6am and during these weeks, with light westbound traffic due to be diverted via Beaminster, Crewkerne and Chard, with an eastbound diversion in reverse. HGVs and caravans travelling westbound will be diverted from the A35 at Dorchester, via Yeovil and Ilminster, again with a reverse eastbound diversion.

A Highways England spokesman added: "The programme of work will be completed in mid-June, in time for the summer holidays.

"In the meantime Highways England advises drivers to plan their journeys and allow extra time while they are being delivered."

Drivers can get up-to-the-minute travel information by phoning the Highways England Information Line on 0300 123 5000 or by visiting trafficengland.com