A group of pupils from Goosnargh Oliversons CE Primary School, near Preston, turned traffic cops and caught eight speeding drivers in just over an hour.

Two of the motorists stopped on Whittingham Lane in Goosnargh agreed to go into the classroom to explain why they were breaking the speed limit.

The other six were given automatic fixed penalty notices as they were deemed to be going too fast to be given the option.

A team of 30 Year Two pupils embarked on the project with teacher Lynne Hall, classroom assistant Vicky Eccles and PC Chris Banks after the six and seven-year-olds highlighted the problem on the road.

They lined the street with happy face placards to show to drivers within the limit, while speeders caught by the speed gun were made to stop by officers.

A man who works for a Garstang firm agreed to answer the children's questions instead of a fine, after being caught driving seven miles an hour over the limit. He chose to speak to the children because he said getting points would affect his livelihood and work as a driver.

The embarrassed man, who did not wish to be named, said: "It's a good idea. It makes you think and it does bring it home to you."

A 73-year-old man from Farnworth, near Bolton, who would only give his name as Kevin, said: "The children asked good questions. It was a bit unnerving. My grandson was knocked over in Cleveleys. If it helps, it's brilliant."

A 47-year-old woman, from Fulwood, Preston, who was clocked doing 45mph and was given a £60 fine and three penalty points, said: "The children are doing a good job but I don't think drivers will take much notice. I don't think you will ever stop speeding."

Six-year-old Libby Woods said: "We want to make our community a better place."

Teacher Lynne Hall said: "It's been amazing, the impact after speaking to the drivers. It shows how the community pulls together."

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