A DISPUTE has broken out in a Kent village between a leading councillor and residents who claim she is more likely to cause an accident in her Reliant Robin than the speeding drivers she is campaigning against.

Cllr Shirley Maile, from Dymchurch, near Hythe, wrote to the Kentish Express newspaper two weeks ago saying local drivers were the worst offenders for speeding because of their familiarity of the roads.

But one resident insists that Cllr Maile's large French poodle, Chaucer, is more likely to be the cause of an accident when he travels in the vehicle.

The letter said Cllr Maile could often be seen driving through Dymchurch with Chaucer standing on both the front and rear seats of the car compromising the safety of the dog and other road users.

Cllr Maile said the letter only added fuel to the debate for reducing speeds in the village and she blames "adolescent" television presenters who promote fast cars.

She said: "I admit I have a large dog but he sits on the back seat of the car looking over my shoulder. As I drive slowly I'm less likely to have an accident. I am so cautious and careful no danger will become of Chaucer.

"You have to be sensible and drive within the speed limits. If you put it in the minds of conscientious people, they may slow down. I practice this sort of driving and I am proud of the skills I have learnt."

"I think that speeding should be done away with as a crime and we introduce safety speeds. With modern technology if people do break the limit they have a buzzer in their car to remind them of their speed.

"I drive with extreme care and within the speed limits and the chances of me having an accident are less likely."

Cllr Maile has called for speed limits to be revised and called on the Government to impose maximum speeds on dangerous corners to reduce accidents.

Chaucer became a local star when he helped with Liberal Democrat canvassing for the Shepway council election in 1999 assisting Cllr Maile and Peter Carroll in Dymchurch.