Fixed speed camera toppled hours before switch-on

The camera was due to become operational from Tuesday

North Yorkshire's first fixed-location speed camera has been deliberately knocked over hours before it was due to be switched on, according to police.

The device, installed on the A64 in Sherburn, between Malton and Scarborough, is part of a three-month trial aimed at improving road safety in the area.

It was officially unveiled by the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, in a ceremony on Monday, and was scheduled to become operational on Tuesday 1 July.

Confirming the damage, which is understood to have taken place in the early hours of Tuesday, North Yorkshire Police said it was "disappointing" to see the camera "targeted by vandals".

"We believe the damaged was deliberate rather than accidental, and an investigation is ongoing," police said.

"It is disappointing to see that something intended to help keep the village safe and protect members of the public has been targeted by vandals."

Police said work was continuing to ensure the lamp-post and exposed electricity cable were made safe, with a view to reinstalling the camera at an alternative site in the vicinity.

Anyone who has information, or witnessed the damage, is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police.

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