For motorists, the sight of a policeman at the side of the road holding a speed gun is an irritating one.

Drivers bemoan the fact forces spend time checking to see whether people are wearing seat belts or using their mobile phones at the wheel.

But today there can be no doubt that unpopular schemes are having an positive effect on Oxfordshire's roads.

Figures released tonight by the Department for Transport made promising reading.

They showed that the number of pedestrians and car users killed or seriously injured on our roads fell in 2007, when compared with an average figure taken between 1994 and 1998.

However, the number or cyclists and motorcyclists killed or seriously injured rose.

Overall, when all incidents — including deaths and serious injuries — were taken into account, 2007 figures showed a decrease on the four-year average.

Police said their message was finally getting through and vigorous roads policing throughout the county was having an impact.

So, next time you find yourself cursing when an officer holds a speed radar gun at your windscreen, just think — it is for everyone's benefit.