A CRACKDOWN in speeding across Dorset saw more than 200 speed and other offences processed by the police in one week.

The concentrated week of action from October 14 to October 20, saw community speed watch (CSW) volunteers deployed in more than 100 locations across the county.

The volunteers, supported by a speed detection device, monitored 15,700 vehicles in total – with 387 warning letters issued to those caught going over the speed limit.

The letters do not result in a fine, they simply advise the driver they have exceeded the speed limit and to educate them to be more aware of their speed.

According to police, the highest speed recorded by CSW teams was 55mph in a 30mph limit.

“Last week showed a real collaboration between the volunteers and uniform colleagues working together to keep the roads of Dorset safer for all users and the figures speak for themselves,” said Dorset Police’s CSW coordinator Maria Attwood.

Mark Armstrong, head of road safety at Dorset Police, said: “The results from this event are a testament to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers, which helps toward creating a tangible difference to the safety of all road users.”

Police and crime commissioner for Dorset David Sidwick said: “Enhancing road safety is a priority in my police and crime plan, and I am working with Dorset Police to ensure they use all tools at their disposal to keep dangerous drivers and unfit cars off our roads.

“From the dedication of CSW volunteers to our Interceptor Team and serious collision officers, road policing in Dorset is a model admired by other forces across the country, thanks to the positive results we are seeing year after year.

“Each and every volunteer is a valuable asset who all help reduce road casualties.

“The success Dorset has in keeping the county’s roads safe is in large part down to their work, and I am pleased to say that new investment has been put into our CSW scheme with a focus on rural areas.

“I will continue to support the many dedicated officers, staff and volunteers working hard to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on Dorset’s roads.”

For more information about CSW visit www.dorsetroadsafe.org.uk