HUNDREDS of drivers in Dorset are set to make claims after being unlawfully punished for ‘speeding’ through a village.

In total, more than 24,000 motorists were punished for driving faster than 30mph along the main road through Chideock prior to 2007.

After a test case, launched at Dorchester Crown Court by a lorry driver, it was found that the road had been incorrectly named in the traffic regulation order.

The mistake meant the 30mph speed limit was not legally enforceable and has now left Dorset Safety Camera Partnership liable to pay out an estimated £1.5million in refunded fines plus costs as it begins reopening individual cases.

Among those putting in a claim to have their £60 fine repaid is Howard Cogan, semi-retired proprietor of West Dorset Aquatics in Littlemoor Road, Weymouth.

Mr Cogan, 65, of Gatcombe Close, Dorchester, was caught driving in excess of 30mph along the village’s main road in July 2001.

He said: “I hold my hands up to the offence but all I had done was let my car coast downhill without applying the brakes in an effort to drive economically.

“I know that it’s not an excuse, but I do feel cameras do not take any account of individual circumstances, in the same way that a policeman might.

“I honestly don’t think these cameras are about safety, I think it’s all about money, and if the safety camera partnership is going to stick to the letter of the law, why shouldn’t anyone else?”

On the day he was caught ‘speeding’, Mr Cogan was driving through Chideock on his way to Plymouth to see an ex-employee take part in a Royal Navy friends and family day.

He added: “The fine spoilt what in the end was a really excellent day.”

Also seeking a refund is Verne Prison officer Paul Allington.

Mr Allington, 55, was driving a prisoner from the Portland prison to another establishment for medical treatment when he was caught driving at over 30mph through Chideock.

He said: “After I got the fine, I tried to plead my case that I was working and in a hurry to get this prisoner to where he needed to be.

“I was told that I could take my chances in court and could pay up to £1,000, so I just paid the £60 fine instead.”

Gerald Moors, 79, of Weymouth, was also caught driving through Chideock at over 30mph in 1997 and was fined £60 with three penalty points added to his licence.

He said he will now begin pursuing a claim against the Safety Camera Partnership to get his money back.

Dorset Safety Camera Partnership has set up a dedicated Chideock information line on 01305 227567 while the number for general enquiries is 227600.