Camera advice just the ticket

NORTHUMBRIA Police seem particularly proud to present their annual “league tables” for often unsuspecting motorists creating an own goal, being flashed at, and caught by the ever cunningly placed speed cameras.

Sadly, my home town of Gosforth is top of the table, as with its devilishly difficult fixedpoint camera on the Great North Road between the Blue House roundabout and Gosforth High Street.

Last year, 3,798 culprits failed to take their foot off the pedal, and fell foul of the trap. In their defence, it can be a bit of a problem when, so soon after a 50mph limit, it quickly goes to 30mph. Also, the road suddenly goes downhill.

The camera is rather set back, so if there’s a sudden lack of concentration, and the speedometer moves towards 40mph, or maybe more, then following a flash of acknowledgement, you’re copped!

How can the “league tables” show an annual reduction of renegers? Most modern cars are fitted with cruise control systems, so I suggest, when approaching a speed limit, set it to the required figure, and only release it after the all-clear sign appears.

This particularly applies for those falling foul in Gosforth, where even local drivers, who should know better, are issued with tickets, even more than once a year!

Also on motorways, I recommend setting the cruise control to 70mph, and leaving it there. This will avoid the blue lights suddenly appearing, and to be honest, if you’re caught speeding, a subsequent fine.

CHRIS ROBINSON, Gosforth