A NEW speeding enforcement operation has been launched today.

The campaign, by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC), has been timed to coincide with travel restrictions easing in England.

Although restrictions have not changed in Wales, North Wales Police will be taking part in the operation in the wake of high speeds recorded during lockdown.

The NPCC said: "Today, NPCC has launched a new speeding enforcement operation. This is deliberately timed as travel restrictions start to ease and the volume of traffic increases – particularly when so many people have not been out on the roads for quite some time."

In North Wales concerns have been raised in recent weeks of people driving at high speeds on the A55 and A483 as well as through towns and villages.

One driver was clocked travelling at 108mph on the A55 at Caerwys and another at 101mph on the A5 near Corwen.

North Wales Police tweeted: "We've already publicised some of the eye-watering high speeds that we and @GoSafeCymru have recorded over recent weeks, so we are reminding that we will continue to take action to help save lives."

Other drivers were was caught travelling 74mph on the A5 at Glasfryn, 59mph in the 40mph zone on the A525 at Bangor-on-Dee, and 78mph on the A525 at Redbrook, Maelor.

Speaking about the issue, Superintendent Jane Banham of the Roads Policing Unit said: “Speeding is an issue that concerns many of our communities, but at the moment it’s especially poignant. Fatal or serious collisions caused by taking risks and driving or riding at excess speed would require the use of the NHS, fire and police - all who are exceptionally busy because of COVID-19.

“Those involved in a serious collision are likely to end up in hospital, depriving people suffering from COVID-19 of precious NHS resources, precious medical care and potentially hospital beds.

She warned: “Despite the travel restrictions we are still out there and we will continue to secure convictions and keep our roads safe from those who put their lives and other innocent road users at risk.”