Councils around Marlborough are concerned about the impact of the loss of the camera partnership.

Alex Carder, chairman of Pewsey Parish Council, fears speeders are going to get away with it.

He said: “We’ve gone into this Community Speed Watch but the problem is that it is toothless. If someone is caught speeding three times, he will get a letter. So what?

“One of the main things people complain about at council meetings is speeding and it is just going to get worse. Community Speed Watch in Pewsey has found that ten per cent of drivers speed.”

Marlborough Mayor Andrew Ross said: “Whilst we recognise these (speed cameras) are unpopular with many people and are seen as a revenue earner for the Government, we appreciate they contribute to the reduction in accident injuries.”