Avon and Somerset Police recorded the highest number of speeding offences out of all forces across the country last year, new figures reveal.

The county’s force punished a total of 219,550 drivers in 2016 and tops a list of 10 constabularies based on a request for data under the Freedom of Information Act by TeamSport Indoor Karting.

Figures also reveal the alarming speeds at which some motorists travel with one driver clocking 148mph in Avon and Somerset.

Research revealed a total of 2,293,228 speeding offences in the UK last year.

Dominic Gaynor, managing director of TeamSport Indoor Karting said: “The data we have collated is astounding; it seems motorists in the UK are driving fast and completely ignoring the limits put in place.

“The speeds recorded are dangerous and drivers really need to think before they take to the wheel, their own safety and that of others is paramount on the roads.  

“We offer the perfect place in which to enjoy fast driving.  Karters can take to one of our 22 tracks throughout the UK, experience adrenaline pumping speeds in a purpose built safe environment, and know that a speeding ticket won’t be landing on their doorstep afterwards.”

The top 10 constabularies which recorded the highest number of speeding offences in 2016 were named as:

  • Avon and Somerset (219,550)
  • Thames Valley (173,654)
  • Greater Manchester (120,315)
  • Essex (91,705)
  • North Yorkshire (89,269)
  • West Mercia (82,227)
  • Hampshire (81,304)
  • Nottinghamshire (75,556)
  • Hertfordshire (73,960)
  • Bedford (71,101)

The actual speed recorded on UK roads is also alarming; TeamSport reveals the top five fastest speeds as:

  • 154mph (West Mercia and Suffolk)
  • 151mph (Nottinghamshire)
  • 148mph (Avon and Somerset)
  • 145mph (Lincolnshire)
  • 142mph (Norfolk)

For more information and insight into speeding offences in the UK, follow this link for TeamSport's website.