The Lorry Watch group in Bradford on Avon is seeing a spiralling increase in trucks through the town, despite a successful two-year campaign of prosecutions.

The news comes in the week an seven-axle transporter lorry tried to cross the Town Bridge on Monday morning, but got stuck at the mini roundabout in Silver Street, causing major traffic delays in its wake.

The situation was exacerbated as it came on the first day that Masons Lane was closed for tree surgery work.

Lorry Watch, which involves volunteers taking shifts to tally vehicles that exceed the town’s 18-tonne weight limit, has contributed to about 30 prosecutions since being set up in October 2011.

Any lorries breaking the limit receive a warning letter from Trading Standards after their first crossing and are prosecuted if they drive through for a second time.

Lorry Watch co-ordinator Stephanie Ridout said: “The traffic flow in Bradford on Avon has increased astronomically.

“It is chock-a-block all day, so we are seeing more lorries, but they are all new ones, not repeat offenders. They are learning their lesson.”

She added: “Trading Standards are looking at the possibility of prosecuting lorries on the first crossing.

“That, in itself, could have a huge effect and reduce the numbers.

“Something needs to be done, though. The signs are obviously not being seen and we need something that is more visible.”