The speed at which drivers are travelling through two South Derbyshire villages are being monitored over the next three months by volunteers from the villages concerned.
And those found to be breaking the speed limit will receive a warning letter from Derbyshire Constabulary telling them what has happened and advising them further action could be taken.
The speed monitors are being used in Coton-in-the-Elms and Linton, chosen for the scheme following a number of requests at the Safer South Derbyshire Partnership’s Safer Neighbourhoods meetings in the area.
The police have organised and provided training for volunteers in the villages and identified locations in which the equipment can be safely operated.
Fourteen residents have been trained in how to use the hand held speed devices, health and safety issues, minor dispute resolution and safe operating practices.
Having completed the training volunteers have taken to the streets with the equipment for the first time this week and already have details of dozens of vehicles to pass on to the police.
Keith McLaren, one of the volunteers, said: "The scheme is needed in this area. It is a visible deterrent and we hope that it makes a difference."
Being the Chair of the Safer South Derbyshire Partnership, I went along to Coton-in-the-Elms to watch the volunteers in action at 8.15 this morning. (Monday March 3).
The Partnership is pleased to have helped respond to requests from residents in these villages and we hope that the scheme will raise awareness of the dangers of driving too fast.
