AN ISLE of Wight councillor says Middle Road sees far too many accidents, following a crash which claimed the life of a 42-year-old man at the weekend.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is appealing for information and witnesses following a fatal collision on Sunday, April 7.

This involved a blue Mazda 6, which collided with a tree on Calbourne Road.

The driver of the Mazda, a 42-year-old man from Newport, suffered serious injuries and died at the scene.

A dog was also in the car and was taken to an emergency vet, but had to be put down due to its injuries.

“My first thoughts are for the family of the deceased,” said Nick Stuart, councillor for Brighstone, Calbourne and Shalfleet.

“I am aware from personal experience how difficult it is to deal with a sudden loss, and I know how this is a continuing source of grief to the family.

“There are always ways to make roads safer, and the council as highways authority, and Island Roads, will listen to the advice of the police and make their own judgements.

“The Middle Road, specifically from Freshwater to Newport, sees far too many accidents, and I am aware that improvement plans have yet to see the light of day.

“I have made no secret of my view over many years that on the Island we need a coherent strategic approach to road speeds for vehicles, pedestrians and other road users, and that we should reset that balance.

“The publication of the speed review by the council, and a commitment to change, would be an excellent next step.

“But for now, I can only repeat my condolences for the family.”

Many Islanders have taken to social media to pay tribute to the 42-year-old.

“So sad,” wrote Jodey Deanne. “So many accidents on the Island. My thoughts are with the family, losing two loved ones.”

Catherine Diamond described the incident as “absolutely heart-breaking”, and Richard Palmer wrote: “There are so many bad accidents on the Island. It’s not a place where you can drive fast with the amount of cars on the road these days.”