LANGSTONE residents say Sunday's fatal car crash was "an accident waiting to happen".

A 24-year-old Newport man died and six people were seriously injured when a Proton car and Ford Granada were in collision on Magor Road just after 6pm.

Twenty-four firefighters cut free four people, who all live locally, from the wrecked vehicles. Two more were freed before they arrived.

Now residents say they have complained to Newport council and police about the busy 30mph road for two years.

A spokeswoman for Newport council said an accident report was being drawn up with the police and issues surrounding signs on the road would be considered.

She said: "That report should be ready by the end of the week. It will be circulated internally, but I don't know yet when it will be considered more publicly."

Peter Morgan, who lives at Spring Acres, near the accident scene, said: "It was an accident waiting to happen.

"It's exactly what we've been predicting, as tragic as it may be, and unless something is done we're going to see more accidents.

"We've been in touch with the council continuously for the last two years, and nothing happens.

"About six weeks ago we had the road resurfaced and at the time we suggested it was a golden opportunity for putting repeater 30mph signs up along the road.

"As you come off the A48 you are so concentrated on the traffic you are not focused on the 30mph sign that is there."

Mr Morgan added he and two other residents sent a letter to the council just five days ago warning about the traffic problems on Magor Road.

He said they had written in reaction to a planning application for more housing in the area, to say it was not safe because of the traffic.

Ian Neale, owner of Magor Road Nursery, added: "They ought to put double white lines in the middle of the road from the A48 to the brow of the hill because some people overtake those who are doing 30mph."

Locals say police do monitor speed in the area, but more needs to be done to ensure motorists know it is a 30mph zone.

Gwent Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 01633 838111 quoting log number 478 of June 15, 2003.