POLICE carrying out speed checks on major roads into Sidmouth, after requests by residents, found only two drivers of the 40 stopped were not locals.

POLICE carrying out speed checks on major roads into Sidmouth, after requests by residents, found only two drivers of the 40 stopped were not locals.

"These checks were taken due to numerous letters recently received from Sidmouth residents stating their concern over speeding motorists," said PC Steve Lemon, neighbourhood beat manager.

"Police spent seven hours, spread out over three days, monitoring speeds on four roads.

"Four speeding tickets were issued for excess speed in 30mph zones. These carry a three point penalty and �60 fine.

"Only two drivers were out of town and one of these was doing 47mph in a 30mph zone."

Three locals' speeds were clocked at 39, 42 and 43 mph.

Some 27 drivers were warned about their speed and three were issued with tickets for now wearing seat belts. These carry a �30 fine.

One vehicle user was fined �30 for using fog lights.

PC Lemon said: "Fog lights can only be used in adverse weather conditions, such as, surprisingly, fog or heavy rain.

"They don't make your car go faster and don't look cool, they just aggravate other road users."

Two other drivers were dealt with for minor vehicle faults and one vehicle was searched under The Misuse of Drugs Act.