A SUFFOLK MP's campaign to get the A11 dualled through his constituency has earned him the title “parliamentarian of the year” from road campaigning group Brake.

Graham Dines

A SUFFOLK MP's campaign to get the A11 dualled through his constituency has earned him the title “parliamentarian of the year” from road campaigning group Brake.

Richard Spring, who is retiring at the General Election after 18 years as Tory MP for West Suffolk, has backed the �130million project which will by-pass the notorious Elvedon crossroads and be the final link in the upgrade of the main road from Norwich to London.

Cathy Keeler, deputy chief executive of Brake, said: “We are delighted to see that safety improvements are finally due to begin on the A11.

“Richard has shown real determination in rallying support and fighting for road saefty on behalf of his constituents.”

Mr Spring said he was “surprised and deeply touched” that Brake had honoured him. He thanked Norwich South Labour MP Charles Clark. for his cross-party help in persuading the Secretary of State to put the scheme in the highways budget.

“These sorts of campaigns can take years and this one has not finished as work is yet to be started,” said Mr Spring. “A great deal more dogged determination may be required, from a great many more people, before lives stop being lost.

The award, sponsored by Direct Line Insurance, took place in the House of Commons.