A driver has been convicted of perjury after covering his face while speeding past a traffic camera and then claiming his number plates had been stolen.

Stuart Hill, of Cranley Road, Barton, was driving at 67mph in a 40mph limit in Bicester Road, Kidlington, when he was snapped by the mobile speed camera last April.

Hill covered his face with his hand then, when he got home, reported his number plates stolen to police.

After being sent a speeding ticket, the 27-year-old again claimed the number plates had been stolen.

He even sent in pictures of his car with different style number plates and spoilers fitted in a bid to support his claims.

But when images from the speed camera were enhanced they showed Hill to be the driver.

Hill pleaded guilty to perjury at Banbury Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday and was sentenced to 16 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months. He was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work and pay £80 costs.

PC Pat Knight, of the Fixed Penalty Support Unit, said: “This case sends out the clear message that we will use the resources at our disposal to find and prosecute those who are prepared to perjure themselves to avoid speeding offences.”