POLICE officers have been conducting speed checks on motorists at various locations across the Crediton area in response to concerns raised by the public.

During the operation a number of motorists were issued with speeding tickets, as well as tickets for using mobile phones whilst driving and for not wearing a seatbelt.

Officers also discovered two vehicles being used without insurance which were seized and removed from the road and one being used without an MoT.

Sgt Gareth Twigg of Crediton Police said: "When we speak to members of the public both in the town and in more rural locations, the top concern is always speeding vehicles.

"We want to keep our roads as safe as possible so this kind of work is ongoing throughout the year.

"It's not just about enforcement, it's also about education, so where there has been a relatively minor infringement officers have been offering suitable advice.

"We know speed isn't the only factor involved when it comes to collisions so we have been on the lookout for other unsafe practices which pose a risk to road users."

He said some drivers caught speeding have told officers that they weren't aware of the speed limit of the road where they were driving.

Sgt Twigg said: "It is a driver's responsibility to look out for road signs and markings so they are aware of the speed limit and also aware of any potential hazards.

"This isn't about trying to catch drivers out, it's about reducing road casualties and allowing people to feel safe.

"The reaction of the vast majority of people we have spoken to, including those caught committing offences, has been positive."

Fined for abuse of officer

ON Wednesday, February 24, a 37-year-old Teignmouth man appeared before magistrates in Exeter following an allegation that he had abused and threatened a Civil Enforcement Officer in Crediton High Street in August last year.

The accused, Choran Sohal, admitted to using disorderly behaviour and was fined £100, with £100 costs.