MOTORISTS exceeding 100mph on the A69 have forced police forces in bordering counties to crack down on speeding drivers returning to the roads.

Police forces in Cumbria, Lancashire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside have joined forces to urge motorists to stop speeding after the lifting of some travel restrictions by the Government.

The forces this week launched a two week-long campaign, co-ordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, with a warning that police will take action against motorists caught speeding.

The campaign follows reports of motorists driving at well beyond 100mph on the A69 road between Newcastle and Carlisle.

Ben Swinson, Chief Inspector of Cumbria Constabulary’s roads policing unit, said: “In recent weeks we have seen evidence of people using the quieter roads as an excuse to drive dangerously and at speed.

"Whilst the world might have changed, the speed limits and traffic laws have not. The county’s roads are not a race track.

“We have seen some particularly egregious examples in recent weeks, including a vehicle being recorded travelling in excess on 130mph on the A69. We are expecting the roads to be progressively busier in the coming days and weeks and would urge everyone to drive with caution.

“Driving recklessly puts yourself and other road users at an enormous risk of serious injury or death – and all at a time when the emergency services, and particularly hospitals, are under great strain.”

Police are reminding motorists that the minimum penalty is a £100 fine and three penalty points if convicted, while they could also be disqualified from driving if they build up 12 or more points within three years.