http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/merseyside/7797948.stm Speeders have convictions quashed
A total of 4,128 motorists are to have their speeding convictions quashed after it emerged police in Cheshire had no powers to prosecute them.
The drivers were caught speeding on the A5117 at Deeside Park, Chester, over the past eight months.
But it emerged that a legal order to enforce a 40mph speed limit next to a stretch of road works ran out in April.
The drivers have already had points added to their licence, been fined and attended speed awareness courses.
The mistake was only discovered on 15 December.
In a joint statement, Cheshire Police and the Highways Agency admitted the traffic order had lapsed in April and had not been renewed.
'Points removed'
Supt Guy Hindle said: "We are not happy to progress with offences on this road which occurred between 9 April and 17 December this year.
"Anyone who committed a speeding offence between these dates on this section of road will be entitled to have the points removed from their licence and their fines returned.
"Police are currently identifying everyone affected."
A new traffic order has now been introduced with a speed limit of 40mph.
Police said they would be writing to all drivers affected telling them how their fines will be refunded and how any points on their licence will be removed.
"There is no need for people to contact police or provide any documentation, we will be in touch with them," added Mr Hindle.