A recent speed indicator device (S.I.D) operation conducted between 16th and 25th January 2024 on the A371 towards Wells has highlighted alarming trends in local driving behaviours.

Over ten days, the device recorded a total of 25,546 cars, with a significant number of drivers exceeding the speed limits.

The highest recorded speed was a 70mph, captured at 21:45 on 17th January, far surpassing the area's speed limit.

Analysis of the data revealed daily volumes of speed, with varying percentages of vehicles exceeding different speed thresholds. Notably, on Friday, 19th January, 20.19% of the recorded vehicles were travelling between 30-34mph, and 38.26% were clocked at speeds of 35-39mph on Saturday, 20th January.

Further breakdown of the speeds shows a troubling trend of high-speed violations during early morning hours, particularly between 1am and 7am.

This operation has cast a spotlight on the need for increased awareness and potentially more robust measures to curb excessive speeding.

A police spokesperson said: "The results from the recent S.I.D operation in Haybridge are indeed concerning. It's clear that a significant number of drivers are disregarding speed limits, potentially putting themselves and others at risk.

"We are committed to working with the community and implementing necessary measures to address these issues. Road safety remains a top priority, and we urge drivers to respect speed limits and drive responsibly."