A MERCEDES driver sped over a Poole bridge at more than twice the speed limit with two small children in the back of the car.

The driver, from London, told police they were late for a sightseeing boat trip they had paid £500 for.

Officers from Dorset Police No Excuse recorded the Mercedes C220 travelling at 72mph in a 30 limit on Seldown bridge on Monday.

"When we left the roundabout we were only two car lengths away from this Mercedes but as you can see from the picture over a short distance that had increased substantially" said a spokesman.

"We are pleased no one was crossing the pedestrian crossing on the bridge at this time."

The apologetic driver was reported to court.