TWO anti-speeding initiatives were held in the county as part of an ongoing campaign to reduce the number of road deaths.

The intelligence-led crackdowns were part of Operation Siren, a multi-agency speeding initiative focusing on education and enforcement.

Speeders can opt for a fixed penalty notice and three penalty points or watch a presentation highlighting the dangers and potential consequences of speeding.

It is part of the county's casualty reduction campaign, Operation Anvil, which is supported by the 95 Alive road safety partnership.

During an operation in Lythe, near Whitby, eight cars and one motorcyclist were stopped for speeding. All opted for the presentation, which was delivered at the local fire station.

Police also arrested a 56-year-old man for drink-driving and reported another for using a mobile phone at the wheel.

In Easingwold, 23 drivers were stopped for speeding. They all opted for the presentation except two, who were given fixed penalties because of the severity of their speeding.

Chief Supt Sue Cross, head of Operation Anvil, said: "The important message we want to get across to motorists is that we are trying to save lives.

"This week alone we have seen two more people killed on our roads, bringing the total so far this year to 13. Although this figure is down compared to the same time last year, this is still too many tragedies, too many bereaved families and too many lives destroyed.

"I would strongly urge motorists to drive carefully and within the law. It doesn't matter if you are late, your phone-call can wait and remember, that bald tyre you keep ignoring could cost you your life - or someone else's."

Speed will continue to be the focus of activity this week as the force takes part in the European TISPOL campaign, which targets speeding motorists all over the continent.