ROAD safety campaigners last night criticised North-East TV star Ant McPartlin, after it emerged he had been caught speeding through County Durham at 127mph.

The 27-year-old, one half of cheeky Geordie duo Ant and Dec, was pulled over in his Audi TT by an unmarked police car on the A1 at Bowburn, near Durham.

The presenter of hit TV shows such as Pop Idol and SM:TV Live pleaded guilty to speeding durng a court hearing in Chester-le-Street, County Durham. He was banned for 30 days and fined £350.

Motorist groups yesterday called on the celebrity to try to set a better example to his legion of young fans.

An RAC spokesman said: "It is important that somebody in his position does set a good example and this is one area where they can do so.

"But there is no such thing as the perfect driver. We all make mistakes and, hopefully, we can learn from them."

A spokeswoman for the AA said: "Speeding costs people their lives. We would hope that anyone who people look up to has got that message.

"If not, it makes the general public think that if celebrities do not pay attention to speed limits, then why should they?"

A spokesman for Durham Police said: "Driving at that speed on that road was folly. Not only was the driver putting himself at considerable risk, but perhaps more importantly, other motorists."

Mr McPartlin said: "I was travelling pretty quick. It was silly and I have learnt my lesson."