FLEET drivers caught speeding in the Thames Valley area are being given the option of attending a driver training course as an alternative to a speeding fine.

Thames Valley Police has teamed up with DriveTech to launch the initiative, which will see drivers completing three to four hour courses depending on the severity of the offence.

Chris Howell, founder of DriveTech, said: 'The courses aim to identify what driver behaviour made the individual exceed the posted speed limit, what benefits they perceived in doing so and the dangers associated with speeding.

'The aim of both courses is to improve driving skills, attitudes and behaviour of drivers and motorcyclists, and ultimately to reduced deaths and serious injuries on the roads.'

Drivers marginally exceeding the 30mph speed limit will be offered a course for £65 instead of a £60 fine and three points, while those with excessive speeding penalties will be offered a four-hour course at £85, a £60 fine and three points as an alternative to fines of up to £1,000 and six points.