Increased roadside checks are being carried out as police look to curb the number of speeding drivers on the roads.

As part of a Europe-wide campaign co-ordinated by European Traffic Police Network TISPOL, Suffolk Constabulary are speaking to motorists and highlighting the dangers of driving at excessive speeds.

The operation is running until Sunday, August 12, and sees more checks and enforcement taking place across the county. Officers are warning drivers of the potential consequences of speeding and driving over the limit.

Chief Inspector Kris Barnard, head of the joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads Policing and Firearms Operations Unit, said: 'We work closely with our partners all-year round to target speeding drivers and these campaigns allow us to enforce the law while also raising awareness of the dangers and educating motorists.

'All too often officers have to deal with the results of drivers speeding, which can be devastating, with families and friends being left behind to pick up their lives after the event. One fatality on our roads is one too many, but tragically six people have died in collisions in Suffolk so far this year.

'Speed limits are in place for a reason – the limit is set at the maximum safe speed to travel on a particular stretch of road.

'Drivers shouldn't use these limits as targets; there are always other factors to consider including other road users, levels of traffic and weather conditions. The faster you are travelling, the less time you have to react to the unexpected and stop safely.'

Alongside drink driving, not wearing a seatbelt and driving while using a mobile phone, speeding is one of the 'fatal four' offences which make you more likely to be killed or seriously injured in a collision.

Those caught speeding are issued with a Traffic Offence Report and face a fine, points on their licence or even court action. Some drivers can opt to take part in a speed awareness course.

Suffolk's police and crime commissioner, Tim Passmore, added: 'The safety of all road users in Suffolk is a key priority for me as the county's police and crime commissioner.

'Speeding wrecks lives and there really is no excuse for it. I find it absolutely staggering that, despite all the publicity and numerous warning signs, drivers cannot keep to the speed limit.

'These thoughtless drivers really do need to wake up to the fact that they are not just risking their own lives, but the lives of fellow road users.'

For results and updates during the campaign, follow the Roads Policing Unit on Twitter @NSRoadsPolicing.