VOLUNTEERS running a community SpeedWatch scheme have caught almost 1,000 speeding drivers in six months.

The SpeedWatch scheme launched in Overton in November, and since then the team has been on patrol 38 times and recorded the speed of around 5,000 vehicles.

Of these, almost 1,000 were travelling over the 30mph speed limit in the village by 5mph or more.

A total of 266 were recorded as driving in excess of 40mph and a further 31 were travelling over 50mph.

The initiative is run by Hampshire Constabulary and aims to educate drivers to keep within the speed limits.

Volunteers running the scheme were approved and trained to use the SID by the police within Overton’s 30mph zone.

Any vehicle travelling at 35mph or more had its registration number, make, model and colour noted by three separate volunteers working independently of each other.

The coordinated results were then emailed to the police who sent out advisory letters to the vehicle’s registered owner.

If the vehicle was recorded breaking the speed limit a second time, anywhere in Hampshire, a further letter was sent.

On the third occasion, police make a visit in person.

Overton Parish Council is now looking at whether the SpeedWatch team has met its purpose of education drivers and made a difference in the village. The team of volunteers is small and if it is to continue, more help is needed.

Villagers can let the parish council know their thoughts by contacting clerk Laura Harley on 01256 771919 or clerk@overtonparishcouncil.gov.uk.