ONE of Gwent's top police chiefs is defending speed cameras - saying they are not about generating extra cash for the force.

The controversial cameras generate thousands of pounds in fines every year and some campaigners claim they do little to reduce accidents.

But in a letter to the Argus today, Deputy Chief Constable Bryan Davies of Gwent Police, says excess speeding causes "unacceptable hurt, misery and even death".

He believes the dedicated units used by the force could help catch speeders and clamp down on other car-related crime.

"Readers of the South Wales Argus will be very aware of our ongoing response to the rise in vehicle crime across Gwent," Mr Davies said.

"Operation Maple has been responsible for 263 arrests, 150 made in Newport."

Operation Maple began on August 1, just days after the Argus launched Car Safe, our own campaign to fight vehicle crime.

Mr Davies said the cameras were there to reduce vehicle speeds on highways and to cut the number of accidents, while all funds from fines above the running costs were retained by the Treasury and could not be claimed by Gwent Police.

"The police tactical response has been to deploy resources aimed at and focusing upon high crime areas and persistent offenders," Mr Davies said.

"We will continue to respond in a manner that provides an effective and efficient use of a valuable resource, and one which has a very real effect in making Gwent a safer place to live, work and visit."

He said speed camera activity was carried out in an open manner, with all monitoring vans being clearly marked with 'camera' and 'Think' road safety logos.

All speed enforcement sites are published on the Gwent police website, by the South Wales Argus every Saturday, and broadcast by local radio stations.