There will be a duckling “massacre” unless warning signs are put up sooner than planned.

Teacher Julie Winters is unhappy that signs warning of ducks will not be put up in Trinity Street until October.

A duck has been nesting in her garden for several years, but the ducklings face a perilous journey to cross the road to reach Halstead Public Gardens.

Essex County Council has said a sign is planned for October, but Mrs Winters warns this would be too late as the duck has already laid her first batch of eggs.