A NEW scheme which allows speeding motorists to choose education rather than prosecution could soon be launched in Gwent.

Instead of a fine or penalty points on their licences, some motorists will be be able to take the Association of Police Force's (ACPO) national speed awareness course.

Which drivers will qualify for the scheme has yet to be decided, but whether police forces like Gwent offer them a place will depend on the severity of the offence, the risk to other road users and their driving history.

Results from pilot courses show that drivers who have taken it are less likely to re-offend. Mid and South Wales Safety Camera Partnership is working closely with Dyfed Powys, South Wales and Gwent Police to introduce the scheme.

Manager Phil Davies said: "We have always recognised that educating motorists about the dangers of speed is vital if we are to succeed in changing driver behaviour and reduce the numbers of people being killed and injured on our roads.

"Fines and penalty points are intended to persuade motorists to drive within the law but education gives them the chance to understand the dangers of speeding and choose to change their driving behaviour to reduce risk and avoid offences."

Content of the course has yet to be confirmed but ACPO say it will highlight the dangers of speeding.

The Chief Constable of North Wales Police, Richard Brunstrom, ACPO spokesman on roads policing, said: "Speeding is unacceptable and the police will continue to enforce the law to further reduce the number of casualties on our roads.

"But there may be circumstances where driver education is a better deterrent to future speeding than fines or penalty points.

"This in no way amounts to a lessening of our efforts, but gives us an extra tool with which to fight speeding."