ONE motorist caught speeding outside a primary school was doing so because they had FROZEN MEAT in the boot of their car.

And another was in a rush to get home because it was a FRIDAY.

Those were among the astonishing excuses given to shocked pupils who were helping police conduct a speeding operation outside Pope Paul School in Potters Bar.

Pcsos Rose Montalbano and Paul Purvis set up the speed trap after giving road safety talks at the Baker Street school.

Speeding is also a neighbourhood priority for the Furzefield ward, after concerns raised by residents about dangerous driving near schools.

More than 50 motorists caught speeding were stopped by police, and the children, aged 10 and 11, joined officers in quizzing them about their actions.

Those stopped were also sent warning letters about speeding, but no further action was taken.

Pcso Montalbano said: “Most motorists thought the exercise was very hard-hitting and a real eye-opener to the consequences of speeding.

“The pupils found it enjoyable but were shocked by some of the responses from drivers.

“They also noticed that most speeding drivers were elderly or female and not young men that they were expecting to speak to.”

She added: “The Safer Neighbourhood team will continue to carry out these speed enforcement operations to educate motorists – many parents – and pupils.

“If we save at least one child’s life, it will have been a very worthwhile exercise.”

The Hertsmere Community Safety Partnership supplied high-visibility vests for the pupils to wear in the operation, which took place on June 24.

Cllr John Donne, community safety and transport portfolio holder, said: “Children are often the victims of speeding motorists in built-up areas so their direct involvement in this initiative should have a real impact on those flouting the law and help get across that it’s 30mph for a reason.”