Speeders clocking 140mph are taking advantage of quieter roads say Cumbria Police

Over the last few weeks there have been a number of incidents of unacceptable speed across the region as people took advantage of the quieter roads - with some clocking up speeds in excess of 140mph.

Following on from the individual speeding enforcement campaigns the forces have already been carrying out, Cheshire Constabulary, Lancashire Police, Cumbria Constabulary, Greater Manchester Police and Merseyside Police are joining together to urge motorists to slow down.

As part of a nationwide campaign, the five forces across the North West will be sharing a common goal as they continue to crackdown on speeding motorists. The two week-long campaign is being coordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) – with a warning from the North West that if you speed in the region, police will take action.

It is important that everyone realises that speed limits are in place for a reason.

Chief Inspector of Cumbria Constabulary’s Roads Policing unit, Ben Swinson, said: “In recent weeks we have seen evidence of people using the quieter roads as an excuse to drive dangerously and at speed. Whilst the world might have changed, the speed limits and traffic laws have not. The county’s roads are not a race track.

“We have seen some particularly egregious examples in recent weeks, including a vehicle being recorded travelling in excess on 130mph on the A69.

“We are expecting the roads to be progressively busier in the coming days and weeks and would urge everyone to drive with caution.

“Driving recklessly puts yourself and other road users at an enormous risk of serious injury or death – and all at a time when the emergency services, and particularly hospitals, are under great strain.”

If prosecuted for speeding, the minimum penalty is a £100 fine and three penalty points. You could also be disqualified from driving if you build up 12 or more penalty points within a period of three years.