Car clocked doing 89mph in 30mph zone

A teenager with a “blatant disregard” for the speed limit has been clocked by police driving at almost 90mph in a 30mph zone, officers said.

The 18-year-old allegedly sped through the village of Wroughton, Wiltshire, at 89mph - three times the speed limit - which could have had "catastrophic consequences", police said.

Officers were carrying out roadside speed checks with a hand-held laser device on Swindon Road when they witnessed the incident at 11.50pm on Friday.

The officers from Wiltshire's roads policing unit attempted to flag down the red Ford Fiesta but the driver failed to stop.

Police later arrested an 18-year-old man from the Wanborough area on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop. He has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Sergeant Barrie Card, of the roads policing unit at Wiltshire Police headquarters in Devizes, said it was fortunate no motorists or pedestrians were hurt in the incident.

"This is by far the highest speed I have ever recorded within a 30mph limit in a built-up area," he said.

"Travelling at such an incredible speed is clearly very dangerous and would give the driver absolutely no time to react if a pedestrian wandered into the road.

"At this time pedestrians were walking from Old Town back to Wroughton.

"The potential for a catastrophic consequence to such a blatant disregard of the speed limit was very real and I would like the help of those with the driver to bring him to justice.

"It would not be ordinary to appeal for witnesses to a case of excess speed but this is quite an exceptional case."

Anyone with any information should contact Sgt Card on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously if preferred, on 0800 555111.

PA