Road safety campaigners are 'saddened and distressed' after three pedestrians were killed after being hit by vehicles on Bucks roads in less than three weeks.

On December 5, an 87-year-old man died after being hit by a car on the A40 near Gerrards Cross.

On November 28, a 62-year-old man was killed after being hit by a van on Chilton Road in Long Crendon.

On November 19, a 78-year-old man was killed after being hit by a car involved in a two-vehicle crash in Newport Pagnell.

The 78-year-old has been identified as Frantz Lauritzen, a ‘loving’ grandfather who is survived by his two children, grandchildren and partner.

In a tribute, the family said Frantz will be ‘greatly missed’ and that they had been left ‘with so many unanswered questions’.

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Frantz Lauritzen (Image: TVP)

They stated: “Frantz was making his way into Newport Pagnell on foot to meet a friend for dinner when the tragedy happened.”

Tanya Braun, Director of External Affairs and Fundraising at the Living Streets charity, formally the Pedestrians’ Association, has spoken out after the deaths.

She said: “We’re saddened and distressed to hear the news of three people killed while out walking in Buckinghamshire.

“Road safety must be a priority if we are to encourage people to enjoy the many benefits of walking and wheeling short distances instead of driving.”

The director called for ‘slower speeds, better crossings and action to stop pavement parking can all help create the safe and accessible streets we deserve’.

Thomas Broom is the Councillor for Gerrards Cross where the most recent fatal crash happened.

Cllr Broom is also Bucks Council’s cabinet member for transport.

He called the deaths extremely sad adding ‘we extend our heartfelt condolences to those affected’.

The council manages two of the roads where the crashes occurred.

Cllr Broom said: “Sadly, accidents can occur for any number of reasons and while Thames Valley Police investigates these incidents, it would be inappropriate to comment on these cases.

“We work closely with the police and the Road Safety Partnership to identify risks and implement measures to protect all road users.

 “Our roads are managed to national standards and supported by safety initiatives such as school crossing patrols, speed limit changes, enforcement cameras, and traffic calming.”

He stated that the council is ‘engineering improvements where needed’ and runs driver education and awareness campaigns working with police ‘to act swiftly on any recommendations’.

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He added: "We urge drivers to stay alert and adjust to conditions particularly in winter.”

Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley has called ‘any death on our roads’ a ‘tragedy’ saying that ‘road safety is an area which affects us all’.

 The PCC added: “We know that excess and dangerous speed can contribute to road collisions, but this is not the sole cause.“

He stated that he is delivering a Road Safety Strategy, working collaboratively with road policing and agencies who are responsible for our road network in the Thames Valley.

He said: “If you have any information relating to these incidents, please contact Thames Valley Police by visiting their website or by calling 101.

 “If you wish to remain anonymous, you can share any details with Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.”

This was echoed by Thames Valley Police, which called for road users to take 'extra care during the winter period' with more time for journeys.

A spokesperson said: "Sadly, the winter months often bring more challenging driving conditions, and the serious collisions that occur have a profound impact on families and our officers. 

“All of these collisions remain under investigation, and an arrest has been made in connection with the collision in Milton Keynes. 

“Whilst it is not appropriate to comment on the details or causes of these incidents while investigations are ongoing, our thoughts remain firmly with the affected families at this difficult time."