Eight people died on East Ayrshire roads in 2007

Jan 23 2009 by Ian Russell, Kilmarnock Standard

EIGHT people died on East Ayrshire’s roads last year, one more than in 2007.

But throughout Ayrshire the number of fatalities was down by two, to 19.

Five people died on roads in North Ayrshire in 2008, down one on the 2007 figure, and on South Ayrshire’s roads the figure was six, down two from the previous year.

Inspector Drew Robertson, head of road policing in Ayrshire, said: “An overall reduction in road deaths within Ayrshire is very welcome and continues a trend we have seen over the last four years.

“For many motorists this will only be a number. However, for those affected by the loss of a loved one, it can have a traumatic effect on their life and is never forgotten.”

Last year’s reduction in road deaths follows on from figures released last week showing a 30 per cent fall in the number of festive motorists arrested for drink/drugs driving in Ayrshire.

Inspector Robertson welcomes the trend, but says too many drivers continue to break the law, putting themselves, other motorists and pedestrians in unnecessary danger.

He wants members of the public who know someone who falls into the category of a habitual drink/drugs driver to provide information anonymously – either through their local police office or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.