ROADS through Hamp-shire's villages could have their speed limits reduced in a bid to cut down on accidents, the Daily Echo can reveal.

County transport bosses have launched a review of speed limits which could see them cut to 20 mph on some A and B roads.

Villages could see speed limits reduced from 40mph to 30mph, while roads which pass schools may see the limit cut back to 20 mph.

The review of speed limits on the county's road network was introduced by Hampshire County Council's ruling Tory Cabinet following new government guidelines.

Earlier this year, county transport chiefs staged a survey of the A and B road network which indicated that current speed limits on roads running through many villages were still appropriate.

The new review will be carried out in conjunction with the council's traffic management programme. At the same time, urgent consideration will be given to schools which want to have a 20mph speed limit outside their premises.

Transport bosses will also be launching a publicity campaign aimed at rural schools promoting the message that "20 is plenty".

The move has been welcomed by county councillor Charlotte Bailey. She said that villagers in Hursley, which introduced a 30mph speed limit about three years ago, had found it a great success.

However, she added that the police needed to enforce the limits to make them truly effective.

She said: "It is a question of enforcement once it is in place."

The new limits were also given a cautious welcome by motoring organisation the AA.

Spokesman Andrew Howard said: "The council needs to make sure, particularly on the major roads, that the 30mph speed limit is clearly signed.

On the proposed 20mph limit outside schools, he added: "It is something that is hugely popular with the public. People think that outside schools is total carnage - in reality, incredibly few children are killed outside schools."

Hampshire County Council leader Councillor Ken Thornber said: "Although many villages would prefer lower speed limits, it's not clear whether an approach based on 30mph limits in all villages, coupled with a possible need for increased enforcement, would be a popular move with the wider Hampshire public.

"We will look to consult on the issue before any final decisions are made."