Migrant workers using rural Shropshire roads are to be targeted as part of a major new safety campaign following concerns from residents about speeding.

Police have begun giving road safety lessons to foreign workers among the 600-strong workforce at an abattoir near Ellesmere.

Constable Howard Lewis, local police officer for Ellesmere rural, is leading the road safety lessons at Anglo Beef Processors in Hordley.

It comes after residents in and around the town voiced concerns at recent meetings about shift workers at the plant allegedly ignoring the speed limit on narrow roads near the site.

Police said among those attending the new road safety sessions were employees from Poland, Bulgaria, Portugal, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Constable Lewis praised the firm for ensuring its workforce was aware of British motoring laws and regulations.

He said: “The training is designed to help staff new to driving in the UK.

“It does not matter who you are, if you drive in a foreign country you are more likely to have an accident.

“The presentation is designed to reduce this risk, and help drivers keep safe on the road.

“The sessions have gone really well and those attending are keen to learn.

“They need to know what licence is required in this country, what to do in the event of an accident, basic safety checks on their vehicle, recognising road signs, observing the law on speed, alcohol, mobile phones and seat belts, knowing about tax and insurance and contacting the DVLA are just some of the areas covered.”

He said there had been six 30-minute presentations carried out so far.

Because some of the workers speak little or no English, ABP provides translators and transcripts of learning materials in different languages.

Lynda Knight, ABP’s human resources manager, said: “We are now working in partnership with Constable Lewis to ensure our migrant workers are given as much information as possible about UK driving laws and safety.

“We will continue with the sessions on a regular basis.”

By Tom Johannsen