DRIVERS speeding through Ryedale, who have found themselves at the wrong end of the law, have been given a choice over the past few days.

Police have been issuing fixed penalty tickets to the worst offenders, but those closer to the legal limit have been asked if they would prefer to pay a fine or attend a briefing explaining the possible consequences of driving too fast.

"Speed is one of the main contributory factors in accidents on the roads," said assistant divisional officer, Tony Dyer, of the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue service.

"What we have been doing is explaining to people to how much more likely they are to be in one if they are travelling too quickly as well as the possible effects."

Graphic pictures showing the wreckage of cars involved in collisions are part of the briefing, which has been helping get the message across.

"By far the majority of people have admitted they had not realised how much of a risk they were taking," said ADO Dyer. "We hope to reinforce the message by repeating the exercise again before Christmas."

Operation Siren continues around the Malton area today.