POLICE have caught fewer speeding drivers in the last year, with the number of motorists being snapped by speed cameras falling by ten per cent.

During 2014 Thames Valley Police (TVP) caught 145,264 people, down by 15,874 from the previous year, when 161,138 drivers were caught.

Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request also show the force’s mobile speed cameras are far more effective than static cameras.

Throughout the Thames Valley there are 29 static speed cameras, two of which are not in use. But the force’s 14 mobile speed cameras caught 25 per cent more speeders, with 80,747 drivers being captured during 2014.

The police officer who first introduced the speed camera to the UK 23 years ago Roger Reynolds said: “Speed cameras have not always proven an effective method of tackling speeding offences.

“Enforcement agencies have been too strict with minor offenders in order to raise revenue and not tough enough with those who really pose a danger.”

The data was collected by insurance website Confused.com. The company’s head of motor Gemma Stanbury said: “It has been 23 years since the very first speed camera was introduced on British roads and they remain as divisive a subject as ever.

“People should be keeping to speed limits regardless of whether cameras are there or not. A speeding fine can have repercussions, from a fine and points on your licence to a driving ban, not to mention increased insurance premiums.”