Kent Police has reported that two young drivers have been disqualified after being caught racing each other at speeds of up to 120mph on the M2 Motorway near Rochester.
An unmarked police patrol spotted Liam Gammon, 21, from Ashford and Billy Little, 19, from Larkfield, weaving through coastbound traffic, undertaking, and using the hard shoulder between junctions 2 and 3 on 15 September last year. Officers recorded the pair maintaining an average speed of over 111mph for a mile before pulling them over.
At Thanet Magistrates’ Court on Monday 18 May, both men were handed 30-week prison sentences, suspended for 12 months, and banned from driving for 18 months. They were also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and pay £272 in costs after pleading guilty to dangerous driving and street racing. Little was additionally penalised for an incorrect number plate.
Inspector David Crompton said:
‘We want to remind people that exceeding the speed limit, particularly to such extreme levels, is one of the four fatal factors that greatly increase the likelihood of a fatal collision.
‘It’s a wonder these two didn’t cause a serious collision, putting not only their lives at risk but also those of other road users.
‘Gammon and Little narrowly escaped a prison sentence but have been disqualified for a lengthy period. Anyone thinking of following in their example should consider how limiting disqualification can be, as well as the repercussions it can have on your work or family life.
‘If they do commit any other offences in the next year, this race may see them put behind bars.’