THE number of drivers prosecuted for speeding in the Avon and Somerset policing area has dropped by 70% since March 2011.

The drop-off in prosecutions coincides with the date when speed cameras across the force area were switched off.

The number of people prosecuted between April 2010 and March 2011 was 160,000, compared with just 45,000 from April 2011 to March 2012.

Avon and Somerset Police says education programmes are recognised as the best way of influencing behaviour.

Supt Ian Smith, from the force’s road policing unit, said: “We are focusing on a flexible approach using the speed mobile vans.”