Motorist vs Plod - nothing's new.

[wolosp]

I was listening to a program on Radio 4 yesterday evening (Archive Hour) which was about family motoring. The subject of speed traps was mentioned. Apparently they took the form of two constables who started the day by synchronising their watches and positioning themselves at opposite ends of a village. As motorists passed them, they'd note down their numberplate and the time at which they passed. At the end of the day, the average speed of each motorist would be calculated and if necessary, a summons sent out. Try contesting that - it would be your word against two Plods!
As a result of the Plod's attitude against the driver the AA was formed. Local paid scouts warning of speed traps eventually developed into the customary AA Patrolman's salute which was a form of warning of a speed trap ahead:
Salute = clear road.
No salute = warning.
Now, that would be worth joining the AA for!