Police speed gun's wrong reading

Police say they are confident with the gun's reliability

A driver's speeding conviction has been overturned, after he disputed the findings of a hand-held speed gun.

Brian Wiltshire, 48, from Caton, Lancs, said he was travelling at less than 30mph, despite being recorded at 39mph.

Lancashire Police admitted the officer failed to check the device before use.

A Preston Crown Court judge overturned the conviction after hearing evidence that laser devices can give faulty readings if not aligned properly.

Judge Andrew Woolman said the ruling did not set a precedent.

He said he would give a full ruling on his decision at a later date.

Mr Wiltshire was driving home nearly a year ago when he was pulled to the side of the road by officers using an LTI 20/20 laser device.

Routine check

The designer clothes shop owner pleaded not guilty to the offence before magistrates, but was convicted in June.

He then took the case to Preston Crown Court.

Mr Wiltshire said he felt vindicated following the appeal ruling.

"Initially I thought I was being pulled over in a routine check but was shocked to learn I had supposedly broken the speed limit.

"Although the judge has not explained his ruling I believe it shows that such laser devices can be wildly inaccurate."

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: "We remain confident with the use of the equipment and its reliability.

"In this instance the case was lost because an officer failed to carry out an administrative function."