Speeders can get their pics online

Speeding motorists caught on camera in Cumbria will soon be able to see the evidence of offences for themselves.

Offenders will be given access to a website which will show high quality images of them behind the wheel.

Officials say the technology will reduce the number of time-wasting excuses from speeding drivers who contest speed camera evidence.

The site will also have information on the prosecution process will be operated by Cumbria Safety Cameras.

When a motorist receives notice of an offence, or NIP (Notice of Intended Prosecution), the paperwork will include security details and instructions on how to access to the website.

On accessing the site, the motorist will see details of the offence, including maps and photographs of the vehicle and the driver.

Cumbria safety cameras communications manager Kevin Tea said: "Strangers to Cumbria may not know where a safety camera hotspot is by the name on the paperwork. "The maps assist them identifying the location and the photographs will aid identifying the driver at the time of
the offence.

"This is particularly useful when people share the driving or where a number of drivers have access to a company vehicle.

"Allowing access to this information will save time and money in answering queries from motorists."

The new website is expected to be up and running later in 2005.