VILLAGE leaders are backing calls for a pavement to be built beside a busy road where two walkers have been seriously injured.

Campaigners gained the support of Marchwood Parish Council after presenting members with a petition signed by more than 900 residents who want a footway installed in Hythe Road.

Members of a delegation that addressed the council included Wendy Bennett, of Drake Close, Marchwood.

She was walking home from the Pilgrim pub in November last year when she was involved in a hit-and-run accident that left her badly hurt.

Two months ago, Tom Sherlock, 67, was severely injured on the same stretch of road as he walked home, having to spend weeks in hospital.

A county council spokeswoman said the lack of footway had already been drawn to the authority's attention.

She added: "Although it doesn't currently feature in any of our programmes, it could be considered for feasibility and might develop from there."