DESPITE advanced notice and social media postings, it seems that Frome and Mendip residents were determined to take no notice of the Police speeding campaigns that took place over the last two weeks of October.
Some 600 were recorded in Mendip for excess speed and over 300 in the Frome area. Observer for the two weeks Ashley Reay from the police volunteer service said that he was appalled at the levels of driving he had witnessed.
Drivers texting, with no seat belt on, and speeding all at the same time was commonplace, he said. Also speeding up to 60 mph in a 30 mph zone was also seen. Some drivers were caught multiple times at speeds over 50 mph.
A generous amount of tolerance is given before any vehicle is recorded for excess speed.
“Some of the comments on social media alluding to the idea that police catching speeding vehicles are just a money-making process. Not so,” says Ashley. “Drivers recorded for excess speeds that are not offered a speed awareness course then the fines go straight to the government, not to the police. A small amount of money does go to the police if the driver elects for a speed awareness course.
“I suggest those who post these derogatory remarks on social media should look up the deaths and accidents that there have been in and around the Frome area over the past five years or so and take a moment to reflect on the effect it has had on family life and the loved ones left behind.
“Let us hope that those who post these derogatory remarks on social media do not have the police knocking on their front door saying that a loved one has been injured or killed.
“All of the places at which the Police check speeds are a result of residents’ requests. The public asks the police to check speeds.
“The vast amounts of fines now due to be paid in Mendip could have all been easily avoided. The police merely seek to reduce speeds so all can be safe so no monies need to be paid, and no points on licences need to be added
“So slow down and take some care. Is this too much to ask?”
