Meurig Jones, 28, Geraint Jones, 38, and Ronald Winterson, 43, all from Anglesey, were off duty when they they were clocked on the A470 at Bronaber, near Dolgellau. The local magistrates yesterday imposed a 28-day ban on each of them for speeding on a road with a 60mph limit. The court was told that the officers fell victim of a "Saferider" campaign designed to curb excessive speed among motorcyclists.

 They were not in court but each sent a letter acknowledging their guilt and apologising for their behaviour. Meurig Jones, of Nant y Pandy, Llangefni, said he had overtaken two cars while enjoying a day out with friends. Geraint Jones said his offence had been committed because he had not been keeping a close eye on his speed while Winterson, of Graig Hyfryd, Holyhead, said he had been concentrating on the road.

 The men were each fined £350 with £30 costs.