Cambridge Independent Press 28 May 1909: P.S. Pallant's speed trap

CAMBS. COUNTY POLICE.

SATURDAY.

Before Prof. Living (in the chair), W. W. Clear, E. Parish, H. H. Wiles, D. Muncey, and A. Pearce, Esqs.

Motor-Trap on the Trumpington-Road.

Noel Wilfred Hutchinson, student, of 66 Regent-street, Cambridge, was summoned for driving a motor-cycle at 25 miles per hour, at Trumpington, on May 7th.

Sergt. Pallant stated that he was on duty in the Trumpington-road, timing motorists over a measured distance. When defendant’s cycle, together with another one ridden by a man named Stephenson, came in sight witness started his watch and stopped it as they passed him. The watch registered 36 secs, for the measured distance of 440 yards, which made a speed of 25 miles 828 yards per hour, with an additional 50 yards it made 29 miles 842 yards per hour. Hutchinson, when they were stopped, tested witness’s watch with his and said it was all right.

Hutchinson, who did not appear, was fined £1 and costs.

Cyril Heath Stephenson, student, of 66 Regent-street, was summoned for a similar offence at the same time and place.

Defendant pleaded not guilty.

Sergt. Pallant gave evidence similar to the last case, and was corroborated by P. C. Martin.

Defendant said he was not timed over the distance at all, as there was only one watch for two people. He did not think it was a fair trap.

The Chairman said the Bench considered defendant was going at an excessive pace, and he would be fined £1 and costs.