A couple have stuck a fake speed camera in their garden - after 17 road accidents outside their home.

Reece Oakes crafted the dummy device out of wood and painted it grey and yellow.

It even boasts small glass lenses and a winking red light to make it look more realistic.

Mr and Mrs Oakes took action after their campaign to reduce the speed limit on Reade's Lane, Congleton, Cheshire, failed.

The speed at which some cars fly down the hill is unbelievable

Beryl Oakes

Retired National Trust consultant Mr Oakes said: "Normally we are not the kind of people to raise our heads above the parapet but this is something we felt we just had to do.

"The idea is that people approaching the speed camera will slow down and save their pockets, and their driving licence."

Beryl Oakes, a retired teacher, added: "The speed at which some cars fly down the hill is unbelievable.

"Some of them are going at 60 mph or more."

The couple, both aged 67, also made 20 mph road signs to warn drivers.

A spokesman for Cheshire County Council said the council had been in discussion with local residents for "some time" and had introduced improved warning signs and chevrons.

But he added: "Reade's Lane is not a top priority for a 20 mph limit and speed camera."

Cheshire Constabulary said the fake camera is not illegal because it is on private property and does not hang into the road or obscure motorists' vision.