By Anna Burdett

Last updated at 15:14, Friday, 18 May 2012

The mother of a boy knocked over by a car as he crossed a road during a game of golf is launching a campaign to lower the speed limit.

Thomas McNeil

Thomas McNeil, of Wolsty Close, Kingstown, Carlisle, suffered concussion and bruising after he was hit by a Ford Focus as he crossed the road between holes at Eden Golf Course at Low Crosby on Sunday.

The narrow country road joins Crosby-on-Eden and Newby East.

His mother Janet, who was his caddy, was walking with her 12-year-old son when the accident happened.

She said: “I’m starting a campaign to change the speed limit on that road as it is 60mph at the moment.

“People come round a corner close to where golfers cross and many have told me of near-misses.

“Lots of junior events happen at the club so it’s important that they can play in safety.”

Thomas was treated at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle after the accident, which happened midway through a game of golf with his dad David.

The driver of the car was a 29-year-old man. His pregant wife also needed hospital treatment.

Mrs McNeil, a teaching assistant at Castle Carrock, said the family joined the club a couple of months ago and David started learning so he could play with Thomas.

She added: “Something has to change on that road. I want to see a sign put up on the road to warn drivers that there are golfers crossing.

“I hope I can get the speed limit reduced on the road until it is past the golf course.

“I’m going to talk to the owner of the club and arrange a petition.”

Club owner Julie Wannop was away this week and unavailable to speak to The Cumberland News.

Cumbria County Council has responsible for highways. It will consider requests from members of the public and the police for changes to roads. This could include reducing speed limits and putting up warning signs.

Thomas, who is planning to return to William Howard School in Brampton next week, said: “I’ve had lots of support from my friends. I don’t remember the accident but I was worried that the injuries would stop me playing golf.

“I’m ambitious and one day I want to play on the PGA tour.”

Anyone who saw the accident is urged to contact police on 101.

First published at 14:08, Friday, 18 May 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk