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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Ellie Forbes & Kathleen Speirs

Fuming NC500 residents fear for lives as tourists clock speeds of 104mph

Scots who live alongside the NC500 fear for their lives as 'sports car convoys' o f tourists are clocked speeding up to 104mph.

The 516-mile loop starts in Inverness and runs through Black Isle, Caithness, Sutherland and Wester Ross.

Droves of tourists keen to see some of Scotland's most amazing scenery embark on the route every year - with Covid-19 travel restrictions seeing a boost in visitor numbers.

But Scots who live in the towns and villages peppered along the NC500 have slammed motorists for speeding on the narrow country roads.

Maree Todd, SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, said locals fear drivers are racing in a bid to complete the route in a certain time.

Ms Todd said: "This is one of the most beautiful parts of the world - the scenery is amazing, the food is amazing and we have a reputation for hospitality.

"But people need to remember that this our home and to treat it with respect.

The North Coast 500 (NC500) route (NC500)

"We are seeing convoys of sports cars going through.

"In some places there is single track and there is this impression some people are trying to complete the route in a certain time."

Last week, police clocked a tourist driving at 104mph on the A832, which forms a major part of the NC500.

Police Scotland regularly patrol the route, with officers increased during the summer months.

Sgt Kate Park said: "The scenery in the north rightly attracts visitors from all over the world, in addition to local motorists who regularly use routes such as the NC500.

"Given the rural nature of many of these roads, it is vital that motorists drive in a responsible manner, whilst being mindful of their own safety and that of other road users."

"We continue to rely on the public to report any road safety concerns by calling 101, so our patrols can be targeted to have the greatest effect."

Craig Mills, head of operations at NC500, said visitors were encouraged to drive safely and in line with speed limits.

He said: "We would urge people to report any dangerous or anti-social behaviour to Police Scotland and other relevant authorities."

NC500 was launched in 2015 with one study concluding it was worth £22m a year to the north Highland economy.

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