AFTER a long and hard won battle the residents of Stirton with Thorlby, near Skipton, are celebrating the reduction of the village speed limit from 60mph to 30mph.

Villagers hope new ‘gateways’ at all four entrances as well as the speed limit will improve safety not only for residents, but for walkers, runners and horse riders, and also users of the caravan park.

They say safety has been a particular issue as there are no pavements or street lighting in the village.

A working party of residents supported by North Yorkshire Police convinced North Yorkshire Highways of the need for a speed limit, but had to raise the money for the ‘gateways’ from villagers, Skipton Rotary Club and a community grant from county councillor Gill Quinn.

A group spokesperson said: “The working party would all like to express their thanks for all the support the campaign has received. Their next challenge is to establish a community speed watch scheme in order to ensure the new speed limit is effective.

James Malcolm, Highways Area Manager, said:“This was a great example of collaboration between us and the community.

“We were happy to work with this pro-active community by helping them achieve their local road safety needs. The new reduced speed limit is consistent with Department for Transport guidance and with speed limits in similar villages across the county.”

Cllr Gill Quinn, member for Mid-Craven, said: “The resident's working party representing Stirton with Thorlby are a wonderful example of a community coming together to achieve one goal and secure safer roads throughout their village.”