A BID to reduce the number of animal accidents in the New Forest will see new methods used in a new crackdown.

Concerned at the number of commoners’ livestock killed or injured on unfenced roads across the forest, a dedicated speed enforcement officer will target the routes that have seen the highest number of human casualties or animal deaths in the past.

From October, one of Hampshire Police’s speed enforcement officers dedicated to the New Forest will be using new technology to concentrate on halting the incidences.

The New Forest Commoners’ Defence Association has developed a project with the New Forest Verderers and Agisters along with Hampshire Police to highlight the dangers on key routes through the forest, especially at dusk and dawn.

In 2013, 72 animals were killed in road traffic collisions in the New Forest, and a further 32 were injured.

Alongside speed enforcement Hampshire Constabulary will be highlighting the dangers through various safety schemes.

Road safety sergeant Rob Heard said: “I’m delighted that by working in partnership with the Commoners’ Defence Association, alongside the Verderers and Agisters, we are able to provide a dedicated resource to tackle this serious issue in the New Forest.”

Jonathan Gerrelli, head agister and a commoner, said: “Autumn is an especially important time of year as it gets dark earlier in the evening and some drivers may not realise that the number of accidents involving animals on rural roads will increase because of that.”

Anyone who witnesses a collision involving an animal should contact the Verderers’ Office on 02380 282052 or out of hours the Forestry Commission on 02380 283141. Alternatively contact the police using 999.