News Release
Tackling speeding motorists
Dated: 14 May 2012
[View Full Size]A Northumberland councillor has joined forces with his local police officers in a bid to slow speeding motorists.
Northumberland County Councillor David Ledger, who represents Choppington, has helped secure funding for a speed camera which will be used in Bedlington, Stakeford, Cambois, West Sleekburn, Guidepost and Choppington.
The handheld laser device was bought through the Local Multi-Agency Problem Solving Group whose members include the police and local councillors.
It will be used by police officers who will always wear high visibility jackets when operating the equipment.
Councillor Ledger said: “Applications are considered which bring benefits to the community.
“This device will benefit the whole of Bedlingtonshire and is available for use by the police around the clock.
“I regularly get complaints about speeding cars and I wanted to try and do something which would make a difference to Bedlington’s communities.
“As someone who has been involved with transport all my life and experienced what it is like to be in a road crash - something which always sticks in your mind – I feel I have a duty to try and help if I can.”
Acting Sergeant Melissa Hepburn of Bedlington Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Members of the local communities have raised concerns with us about speeding motorists and this camera is to be welcomed.
“Using it will give us the opportunity to speak to people about their actions and give us the chance to explain the dangers being caused by their actions behind the wheel.”
Road traffic deaths are the biggest killer of young people across Europe and North America with a pedestrian twice as likely to be killed by a car travelling at 35mph than they would be at 30mph.
Councillor David Ledger is pictured with Acting Sergeant Melissa Hepburn and the laser device.