THERE will be little that can be of comfort to the family of four-year-old Thomas Drew, who died after a road accident near Hindlip First School last month.

But the fact that action looks likely to be taken by the Highways Agency to improve road safety near the school might offer some hope that another family will never have to go through the trauma they have endured.

"Slow" signs near the Fernhill Health school and the re-positioning of flashing warning lights are just some of the work that might be done when resurfacing work is carried out on the A38 next month.

After that, the next - vital - step is that a traffic-calming feasibility study for the village needs to be carried out.

We're sure that everyone involved understands the urgency and, gratifyingly, Mid-Worcestershire's MP, Peter Luff, has pledged to keep up the pressure so there will be no delays.

As we have seen in other parts of the county, most notably on the A449, measures taken by the Highways Agency can have a dramatic effect in reducing accidents.

Clearly, the sooner long-term road safety improvements are introduced on the A38 through Fernhill Heath, the better.