TWO severe accidents on a cobbled courtesy crossing in Tavistock, which occurred within only a few weeks of each other, have led to local councillors appealing for something to be done.

Earlier this month an elderly woman fell and badly cut her face whilst crossing the road between the town hall and St Eustachius' Church at the head of the taxi rank, which was followed by a woman who fell last Friday in the same area and badly broke her arm.

Tavistock town councillor Jeff Moody said the incidents were a cause for concern and that something needed to be done to address the issue: 'It's the effect on the elderly and disabled and visually impaired that concerns me and it needs to be taken seriously and repaired as a matter of urgency.

'I'm very concerned as the situation is a very serious issue and needs to be expedited.'

In a letter to the Times, Ione Lee from Horrabridge said: 'I do not consider myself to be either frail or elderly, however, I too tripped and fell while crossing the road last year at a point where the road is actually subsiding.

'The damage to my knees necessitated a visit to the Minor Injuries Unit at Tavistock Hospital and several appointments with a physio.

'I have been told that Devon County Council operates a system of inspection of these roads and pavements which allegedly occurs every six months. I find that very hard to believe.'

Tavistock town councillor John Sheldon said: 'There is an urgency to get these cobbles, which mark crossing points in town, sorted out. There are probably more near falls than we know about.

'This needs to be put on top of the highway maintenance list.'

Devon county councillor for Tavistock Debo Sellis said that the county council was taking the topic very seriously and was currently dealing with the issue.

'The cobbled pedestrian crossing has seen trips and falls with people requiring medical attention.

'Negotiations are taking place to reduce the risk.'