ATTEMPTS by the Free Press to publish details of mobile speed cameras on Marlow Hill, High Wycombe have been prevented by road safety bosses.

Many concerned motorists have contacted us to complain about the mobile cameras operated by Thames Valley Safer Roads Partnership (TVRSP).

But the partnership has refused our request again for figures detailing the amount of revenue raised and number of fines issued at the site.

Richard Owen, operations manager for the partnership, said a clause had been written into the Freedom of Information Act excusing law enforcement bodies from releasing information that could be deemed "prejudicial".

He added: "Thames Valley Safer Roads Partnership strongly believe that if details of our enforcement strategy were released to the general public it would have a detrimental effect on road safety at the sites where we currently operate speed enforcement with cameras.

"This information would allow the public to assess the potential likelihood of being detected at any one site and therefore compromise the operational effectiveness of said site."

The Free Press first applied for data in April under the Freedom of Information Act. The move followed calls from motorists who felt the site was being used solely to generate revenue.

Many people have expressed concern that the mobile speed camera is placed on the uphill carriageway, yards from where the speed limit changes from 30mph to 40.

Motorist David Rowe, of Hatters Lane, High Wycombe, said: "Why keep these details secret? They know exactly where they're parking the van where they can catch the most people. I think it's totally out of order."

Since cameras were introduced on Marlow Hill in March 2002 there have been no fatal or serious accidents.