THE Western Telegraph is backing urgent demands for road improvements to stop motorists overtaking on the notorious three-lane highway at Dredgeman Hill just outside Haverfordwest (above).

This follows a two-car crash on Friday in which 18-year old James Holder, nicknamed Smiler, of Freystrop, died instantly. His car had been travelling towards Milford Haven.

The driver of the other car, Matthew Rickard, of Milford Haven, who was coming in the opposite direction, was cut free by firemen.

He was admitted to Withybush Hospital and his condition is described as stable. His 15-month-old son, who was strapped in a car seat, miraculously escaped injury.

An urgent appeal is being made for witnesses to contact the police on 01437 763355.

This was the fourth fatal accident on the three-lane section of the Haverfordwest to Milford Haven road in five years.

James Holders aunt, Sue Thomas, called for urgent action, saying: There have been too many head-on collisions on that type of road.

Fridays crash brought back traumatic memories for the family of 23-year-old Carl Jenkins, killed near the same spot 17 months ago. His father, Chris Jenkins, of the Friars Vaults, Haverford-west, said:

Something must be done to avoid the temptation for motorists to overtake. The central lane should be blocked off and there should be only one lane up the hill and one down.

Its just so distressing that another young life should have been lost.

Western Telegraph reader Mrs Janet Humphrey of 19 Glebelands, Johnston, voiced the concern of all motorists who regularly use the road. It is very dangerous and frightening. I have seen drivers overtake three or four cars at a time. This stretch is as dangerous as Arnolds Hill on the A40 and something was eventually done there.

Something must now be done about Dredgeman Hill before me or mine are killed.

County Councillor for the area, Maurice Hughes, said: I am sure it would cut down on accidents if they did exactly the same as on Arnolds Hill - stop traffic overtaking going down the hill - and provided better signage

Police Inspector Steve Matchett confirmed that the police and the Trunk Road Agency were evaluating the measures taken at Arnolds Hill with a view to possibly introducing them at Dredgeman Hill. He added: I would like to remind motorists that, where there is a single carriageway with three lanes and the road marking or signs do not give priority in either direction, then use the middle lane only for overtaking or turning right.

Remember you have no more right to use the middle lane than the driver coming in the opposite direction.