AN EAST Lancashire Euro MP is calling for the introduction of more 20mph speed limits on roads.

Liberal Democrat MEP Chris Davies, believes the restrictions will help reduce the number of children killed or injured in road accidents.

He said: "Introducing 20mph areas is a relatively cheap way for councils to improve road safety.

"The Government's own transport department has found that the risk of a child being involved in an accident has reduced by about two thirds where 20mph zones have been installed."

A report by the Institute for Public Policy Research has revealed that while Britain has the best road safety record in Europe, it also has the worst record for child pedestrian safety.

Last year, 616 children were injured or killed on Lancashire roads alone.

In an effort to improve these figures, Lancashire County Council has already created 86 20mph zones, and many more are being prepared.

Mr Davies is pleased that the council has taken these steps and hopes to see the number of 20mph areas continue to increase.

He added: "If you are driving off the main thoroughfares and in residential areas, then 20mph speeds should be regarded as standard."