CALLS are being made for warning signs after deer have been struck on a busy country road.

In the latest incident, residents say a deer was struck on Bradshaw Road over the bank holiday weekend.

Cllr Stuart Haslam, who lives in Harwood, and is ward councillor for Bradshaw, has met with highway chiefs in a bid to get signage along the road warning drivers of deer nearby.

Villagers have echoed his calls saying drivers need to be aware the animals could run out in front of them.

Carol Turner, who walks to Bradshaw Sheet Metal, where she works every morning, said: “I know of four incidents in which deer have been hit since Christmas.

“It is just about raising awareness for drivers that deer can run out quickly and there could be a serious accident.

“ A deer was hit sometime over the weekend, it was either Sunday night or Monday morning.

“I have seen deer lying on the road injured and it is very upsetting."

Mrs Turner says the “hotspot” is between Bradshaw Meadows and the entrance to Jumbles Country Park.

Dinah Hill, who also lives on Bradshaw Road, said: “We think it is very important there are deer signs on the road.

“One or two cars have been badly damaged by deer running out but no one has been seriously injured.

“If drivers are aware there are deer they may slow down and reduce the risk of injury to themselves and the deer.”

Cllr Haslam said that warning drivers of deer in the area could help slow them down.

He said: “The ward councillors have met with representatives from highways about putting up wildlife signs.

“The issue with Bradshaw Road is the speed of vehicles, the speed limits range from 30mph to 50mph.

“An accident is not just tragic for the deer but could have catastrophic consequences for drivers and pedestrians.

“I am hoping that signs could slow drivers down and make them more aware.”

Highways chiefs say they investigating the concerns.

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "We are looking into whether signage is feasible at this location.

"However, wildlife such as deer are spotted regularly around Bolton — they tend to roam across farmland and parks.”