New police camera can catch speeders and phone users driving nearly ONE MILE away

POLICE have unveiled a speed camera capable of spotting speeding drivers from nearly a MILE away.

The new bit of kit is currently undergoing in-field use by police in Gloucester to tackle offences like speeding and tailgating, but the quality of the image delivered at extreme distances is claimed to be so good that it could also be used to provide proof of mobile phone use whilst driving.

The camera – nicknamed The Long Ranger – was showcased at the launch of a pilot project called Operation Indemnis.

As well as producing the still images at nearly a mile away, the nifty bit of kit can also give the police clear video footage of drivers inside their cars.

Martin Surl, Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire, said: “Many people have come to me with their concerns about speeding and other safety issues along this road.

“We now have a chance to test a new model of collaborative road policing which, if it proves a success, can be put into practice elsewhere.

“The aim is not just to penalise motorists but to uphold the law by creating a change in people’s behaviour. But the police will enforce the law when necessary.”

The operation was launched in a lay-by on the A417 known as Granny’s Pumps between Cirencester and the outskirts of Cheltenham and Gloucester.

If successful, the pilot could be applied to any road in the UK and will be linked in to the current ANPR number plate recognition system that already operates nationwide.