More than 140 motorists caught speeding on Lancashire's roads following major police operation

‘Operation Manta Ray’ was launched after police noticed an increase in speeding offences since lockdown began, with some motorists taking advantage of the county's quieter roads.

Incidents included drivers reaching speeds of up to 144mph on the M65, and another travelling at 80mph in a 30mph zone on the A583 at Blackpool.

The operation ran throughout May targeting every area of Lancashire, with officers stopping speeding motorists as well as those committing other driving offences, such as driving without insurance.

As part of the operation 142 people were stopped for speeding – some of which were caught driving in excess of 100mph - and were subsequently either fined or reported for summons.

A total of 120 cars were also seized for being driven without insurance or a licence, or both. Officers also stopped a number of motorists for drink or drug-driving, driving while using a mobile phone or driving an un-roadworthy vehicle.

Ch Insp Sue Bushell, of the Lancashire Police Tac Ops team, said: "Sadly, with less traffic on the roads in recent months, we have seen an increase in some people driving at excessive speeds, potentially putting themselves and others at risk.

"In the ongoing health emergency, keeping the pressure off our emergency services, especially the NHS, is so important whilst they keep the public safe and well throughout this pandemic.

"We hope this has sent a message that no matter how quiet the roads are, the speed limit still applies. We will not stand for people treating the county’s roads like their own personal race track."

The figure of 142 only accounts for drivers who were caught speeding by officers working on ‘Operation Manta Ray’, and doesn’t include those caught with static speed cameras or safety camera vans.