A SECOND makeshift warning sign has been erected in Test Valley after concerns were raised about ducks and their young being killed while crossing the road.

A number of dead ducks and ducklings were spotted lying along Flexford Road, Chandler’s Ford, after they attempted to cross the road from a nearby pond, according to Councillor Alan Dowden.

Mr Dowden believes speeding vehicles are responsible for the feathered friends being run over and called on Hampshire County Council (HCC) to install signs alerting drivers to the animals.

He said if the road was reduced from a 30mph zone to 20mph this could help save more duck families.

In a bid to help the animals, police installed a small plastic warning sign to safeguard the ducks and did a speed check to help warn drivers, the community leader said.

Residents took matters into their own hands and have now placed a yellow sign reading "ducks crossing, please slow down".

Cllr Dowden praised residents for helping to ensure the animals are protected for years to come.

He said: "They have done an amazing job and I am so pleased by the amount of concern local people have shown towards saving the ducks.

"It does credit to people who have such compassion.

"My mission is now accomplished in helping to save these vulnerable creatures and thank you everyone, including the police."

As reported, Mr Dowden said he was first alerted to the issue after a "distressed resident who lives close to the Flexford bridge" urged him to help stop ducks being killed along there.

He was contacted three weeks ago and since then has been determined to save the "30 adult Mallard ducks and 40 ducklings", who regularly cross the road to "exercise or feed on foliage", he said.

When asked about installing a new duck sign, deputy leader and executive member for Economy, Transport and Environment at HCC, Councillor Rob Humby, said: "There are already warning signs in place for the narrow bridge encouraging drivers to take care at this location and there is not a significant history of related collisions in this area.

"However, we note the concerns raised by the local county councillor and will review this request as resources allow."