Community Speed Watch

A Derbyshire mum is using the loss of her son to help stop speeding – with drivers saying her story has changed their minds.

Steph Alger has partnered with the force’s Community Speed Watch scheme, to tell her powerful story to drivers who have been caught driving too fast.

Steph’s son Etienne, who preferred to be known as Justin, was only 18 when he lost his life.

Justin had been traveling near Dove Holes at around 66mph, which was only a little over the legal limit. However, the road was wet and unbeknownst to him, he had a nail in his tyre. He took a corner too quickly and lost control of the car, which fell down a ravine to the side of the road.

Since then, Steph has shared her family’s story to save others from the same heartbreak.

We first featured Steph back in 2024, when she bravely went on camera to talk about losing Justin. Now a link to that video is being sent to drivers who are caught speeding, as part of the force’s Community Speed Watch scheme.

Community Speed Watch sees around 900 volunteers get out into their local communities with speed guns, so the force can get information about which of the county’s roads need more

enforcement activity.

Drivers who are caught going too fast receive a letter about their speed. As part of this, they are introduced to Steph’s story and can view the video via a QR code.

And when drivers were recently asked about it, 91% of those who had viewed the video agreed it made them want to reduce their speed.

Debbie Turner, who co-ordinates Speed Watch for the force, said: “We’re so grateful to Steph for working with us – she is turning her personal tragedy into something which could save lives.

“It’s amazing the impact this video is having on drivers. And none of this would be possible without our volunteers being out in their communities. I particularly want to say thank you to them since this week is Volunteers’ Week.

“The information from our Speed Watch volunteers is so valuable when we plan how to tackle drivers who are speeding. It helps to show us which areas officers need to focus on, as well as educating the drivers themselves about the risks they are taking.

“The letters are a first step to try and change people’s behaviour. Those caught speeding again can receive a personal visit from a police officer, providing education on the risks and consequences and encouraging safer driving. Our volunteers are really making a difference.”

Could you be a Community Speed Watch volunteer? The scheme is run by the force and relies on people giving up their time to join their local groups - find out more and how to join on our website. www.derbyshire.police.uk/communityspeedwatch

Please click to watch 'Steph's story'                                                                                                                                      

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1394097642753596&set=a.301509078679130  

Thank you.