Flintoff cleared of speed charge

The cricket star was formally acquitted by Liverpool magistrates

England and Lancashire cricketer Andrew Flintoff has been formally cleared of speeding - because his prosecution notice was sent two days late.

The 30-year-old was allegedly caught on a speed camera driving at 87mph in a 50mph zone on the M62 motorway in Liverpool in July 2007.

But his lawyer Nick Freeman - known as Mr Loophole - said the prosecution had not followed the proper rules.

The Crown offered no evidence at Liverpool Magistrates' Court.

The father-of-three, from Altrincham, Cheshire, was allegedly speeding in a temporary 50mph zone near Huyton on 1 July.

Flintoff 'relieved'

Speaking outside court, Mr Freeman said: "It is fundamental in any speeding case that the notice is sent and received within 14 days."

But Mr Freeman said the document arrived on 19 July.

"It happens a lot if people care to look at it," he added.

Flintoff, who was driving someone else's car when it was captured on film, spoke only to confirm his details during the brief hearing.

Mr Freeman said: "He is very relieved to have the matter disposed of.

"It happened last July and now he can concentrate on his cricket."