THIEVES are driving villagers in Affetside quackers!

Residents have been protecting a family of ducks against speeding drivers by erecting a warning sign saying: "Caution Ducks Crossing".

But twice vandals have stolen the sign and now angry villagers are calling an urgent meeting about what to do next.

To mark the Millennium, the residents had transformed a disused bus turning circle into a village green which during the spring became home to the family of ducks.

Mindful of the safety of the mother duck and her six ducklings, members of the Affetside Millennium Village Green Committee erected the warning sign. But within weeks it was stolen.

David Manchester, of Manchester Safety Services Ltd, in Heywood donated another sign free of charge. Now that sign has also disappeared.

Tony Rogers, village green committee treasurer, said: "The duck and her six ducklings found sanctuary on the pond and they took to wandering across Watling Street to the cottages opposite for breakfast.

"Being aware that many idiot drivers ignore the 30mph restriction and drive recklessly through at high speeds, the trustees of the green decided to erect the signs."

He added: "For a numbers of weeks many people observed the signs, and even stopped to pay their respects to the rapidly maturing family.

"Then sadly thieves stole the signs, without a second thought for the safety of ducks and villagers alike.

"The signs are £20 each and even though we are grateful for David Manchester donating a sign, what do we do now?

"We have worked very hard to establish a village green and vandals come along and destroy our work for no reason."

Anyone who can help the village with their signs can ring Mr Rogers on 01706 364211.