KNAPP Lane residents are set to have a peaceful month when it comes to heavy traffic, due to the closure of the notorious "rat run" into town, so that new gas pipes can be laid.

Residents of Knapp Lane in Ledbury still have access to their properties; but the road is currently closed at its junction with the Homend, and traffic lights are controlling traffic flow on the Homend.

It is a situation that will last for several weeks. Signs say the closures could run into December, but National Grid is hoping to finish before then.

A National Grid spokesman said this week:"The work in Knapp Lane is replacing 120 metres of gas pipe. The work is due to be completed by the end of November. We are working seven days a week to make sure the work is finished on time.

"As well as putting in a new pipe, we’re increasing the size of the main to help improve gas pressures in the area."

And the work being carried out now should reduce nuisance to local residents in the future.

The spokesman said: "The new stretch of pipe is made from a hard-wearing plastic which, once in the ground, will last for several generations with no need for maintenance."

Margaret Moore, who lives at the Knapp Lane entrance said: "The closure is having a good effect, because there are no lunatics tearing up and down. I suppose you could say we have having a respite, because people are no longer whooshing off from the Worcester Road, because they can't get into Ledbury at the other end."

Mrs Moore added: " I don't know how I managed to ride my horse safely up and down the lane for so many years. It is very dangerous.

"I've had people overtake me on the right, when I'm turning into my own entrance. People haven't got time for other people. My hedge has been hit three times this year by cars."

But Mrs Moore has also witnessed real tragedy at Knapp Lane.

Several years ago Mrs Moore and her friend Mary Winfield posted 200 questionnaires to local residents, asking what should be done about the rat-run.

She had personal reasons to get involved.

In 1997, Mrs Moore nursed a dying motorcyclist on her drive and a horse died outside her home in 2004, after it bolted and was in collision with a car.

Ledbury's mayor, Cllr Annette Crowe, has also welcomed the temporary closure for Knapp Lane, for the sake of the residents and improvements to the town's gas supply.

She said: "It is better to close it off until it is finished. It will be a welcome respite for the residents of Knapp Lane, and the work has to be done."