ONE cannot reasonably object to the speed camera in Leigh Sinton, its installation has, after all, shortened the journey time along the A4103.

For the last two years there has been a speed camera sign at the start of the Leigh Sinton 30mph limit - but no camera. Drivers were forced to do 30 all the way through the village to avoid the possibility of being caught by mobile cameras.

Since the fixed camera was installed, drivers simply pelt up to it at 60, brake to 30 at the camera and then accelerate away. This may save several minutes, which can be useful if one is late for the office. Of course, one cannot possibly recommend such law breaking.

The camera is as conspicuous as a nun in a snowfield. Anyone caught by it can scarcely complain, as they are being fined as much for a lack of observation (a truly dangerous trait in a driver) as for excessive speed. The fines paid thereby constitute a tax on stupidity - a praiseworthy method of revenue generating.

What is unjustifiable is the excessively long 30mph limit, which precedes the camera. While a 30 limit through the centre of the village is obviously sensible, the 30 sign is three quarters of a mile earlier. Such unnecessary speed restricted stretches must surely be intended for revenue raising rather than road safety purpose - creating and profiting by a crime where previously none existed.

ROBERT KAY, Hereford Road, Ledbury.