Urgent road safety measures are needed to stop drivers speeding along a busy road before somebody is killed.

That's the stark warning from residents in Hempstead after a 12-year-old cyclist was seriously injured three weeks ago and remains in a London hospital.

There is nothing to suggest at this stage the driver in involved did anything wrong but it has raised concerns about safety in general.

A campaign and petition has been set up demanding traffic calming and safety cameras along a stretch of Hempstead Road where there is an infant school and care home.

The neighbourhood's PCSO Jeanette Reed has also got involved raising concerns with Medway Council's road safety team.

Nick Thomas, who lives in Honey Close, said: “It’s very worrying. Drivers go along there at unbelievable speeds.

"Is it going to take somebody to die before we are listened to?"

Mr Thomas, 53, who works at Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, added: “I walk to work sometimes and it can be very hairy. Drivers are very irresponsible.”

Worries have mounted since the schoolboy, on a black bike, was involved in a collision with a Mitsubishi Outlander at 1.35pm on Saturday, September 15.

The boy, who lives locally, was taken to hospital with serious head injuries and his condition is now said to be stable.

"Is it going to take somebody to die before we are listened to?" - Nick Thomas

PCSO Reed said the road was used as a cut-through and was "a bit of a free for all" particularly at night time.

She said: “During the day it’s not as bad as cars parked along the side slow down passing traffic.

"With the school and the old people’s home, there’s a lot people coming and going.”

PCSO Reed suggested traffic islands and a police speed watch might help.

Another resident Peter Mountford, of Pine Grove, said: “You take your life in your own hands when you cross the road.

"The cars come out of nowhere and at such speed.”

David Crowhurst, 56, a charity worker of Honey Close, said: “This is a very busy road that has a very busy infant school - speeding cars seem oblivious of this.”

Council transport chief Michael Edwards said the council had received concerns from residents since the accident involving the schoolboy.

He added: "We take road safety matters very seriously and are reviewing their concerns.

“The council currently employs a school crossing patrol officer at Hempstead Road to help keep pedestrians safe.

“We also work all year round to promote road safety and help keep Medway’s road users safe.”