Changing of clocks is rushhour for deer on the roads

DRIVERS are being warned that collisions between deer and vehicles are expected to peak after the clocks go back tomorrow.

With night falling earlier, the peak commuting time will coincide with deer coming out to feed on grass verges near roadsides.

In an attempt to reduce the number of accidents, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), in conjunction with Transport Scotland and Traffic Scotland, will display warning messages on electronic signs.

From tomorrow until November 21, the signs will warn motorists at key locations on the main trunk roads across west and north-west Scotland.

Jamie Hammond, SNH deer management officer, said: “We advise motorists to slow down and watch for deer crossing roads.

“Be particularly alert if you are driving near woods where deer can suddenly appear before you have time to brake. If you do hit a deer, report it to the police, as the deer may be fatally injured and suffering.”

Richard Cooke, of the Association of Deer Management Groups, added: “Deer are a danger on our roads at any time of year, more or less anywhere in Scotland, but it is particularly important to look out for them in the spring and autumn.

“To reduce incidents, drive within the speed limit to give you a chance of stopping.”

The most recent research shows there are more than 7,000 collisions between vehicles and deer every year in Scotland, with an average of 65 of these resulting in human injuries. SCOTTISH soldier Warren Grant, front left, swaps the small screen for the parade square as he goes on the march in Edinburgh.

Corporal Grant, from The Royal Regiment of Scotland, has made an impression on television viewers through his work as an instructor on Channel 5’s documentary series Raw Recruits, Squaddies at 16.

The programme follows the trials and tribulations of dozens of teenage recruits as they make their way through six weeks of basic training at the British Army Foundation College in Harrogate, Yorkshire.

It is the only military training facility in the UK that accepts teenagers into its ranks.

Yesterday, Corporal Grant was joined by fellow soldiers for a parade at Redford Barracks after passing a leadership course. Picture: Andrew Milligan/PA