TWO tourists were charged with dangerous driving on the North Coast 500 (NC500) route after being caught speeding at more than 100mph amid a police operation over the weekend.
Officers with the Highland and Islands Road Policing Unit found Swedish tourists David Jansson and Axel Ahgren – both 20 – travelling at high speeds near to Laxford Bay, in Scotland’s far north west.
A Sheriff Court heard that Jansson, in a grey Sweden-registered Porsche, was clocked doing 108mph, while police had to go 105mph when chasing. Ahgren was driving a grey Sweden-registered BMW.
At Inverness Sheriff Court, Sheriff Neil Wilson told the men: “By all means come here on holiday but don’t use the Highlands of Scotland as a playground or racetrack.”
The Press and Journal reported that the two Swedish tourists were both banned from UK roads for 16 months and ordered to each pay £2075.
You won't be the only one enjoying Scotland's breathtaking roads this summer. Whether you're riding alone or in a group, be mindful of other road users. Visit the Live Fast Die Old website for motorcycle routes and expert tips #BreathtakingRoads https://t.co/7cP9cqXied
— The Highland Council (@HighlandCouncil) July 10, 2024
Elsewhere, officers said that a weekend of enforcement activity on the NC500 route from July 5 to July 7 had resulted in fourteen further drivers charged with speeding offences.
On top of that, two drivers were charged for not wearing a seatbelt, one HGV driver was charged for driving while using a mobile phone, and one driver was charged for driving with an insecure load, police said.
Sergeant David Miller from the Highland and Islands Road Policing Unit said: "We are committed to ensuring the safety of all road users on the NC500 route, whether they are local residents or visitors enjoying the beautiful scenery.
“This weekend's operation is a reminder that we will take robust action against any driving offences we detect.
“We urge all drivers to be responsible for their own actions and be considerate of other road users and local residents.”
