The sporting event generates millions for the Welsh economy

The Mid and South Wales Camera Safety Partnership said motorists had heeded its warning before last week's Wales Rally GB.

More than 2,000 fans and 17 competitors were caught breaking the limit two years ago during a crackdown.

The number fell substantially last year too.

Offences numbered 525 at this year's rally, which ran between 16 and 19 September, compared to 725 last year and 1,616 in 2002.

John Rowling, manager of the safety camera partnership, said: "We are extremely pleased that even fewer speeding offences were recorded this year and want to thank motorists for listening to our appeals to drive safely and at appropriate speeds.

We have worked hard with all parties to ensure all drivers, spectators and competitors alike were aware of speeding restrictions Andrew Coe, chief executive of Rally GB

"There were no major incidents during the practice or competition stages and we didn't see any of the excessive speeds we witnessed two years ago.

"We also want to thank Wales Rally GB for their continued support in helping to keep the roads safe between stages."

Andrew Coe, chief executive of Rally GB, added: "It's fantastic to see the number of offences were down for 2004.

"We have worked hard with all parties to ensure all drivers, spectators and competitors alike were aware of speeding restrictions and kept within the rules of the Highway Code.

"This year's rally was a huge success and our thanks go to all those that helped contribute to it being a safe and enjoyable event."

Speed cameras on motorbikes targeted Wales Rally GB competitors and fans on public roads at this year's event.

Eighteen speed camera vans were in operation during the rally

They were used along with 18 mobile vans in the annual clampdown by the authorities.

There were fears that the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) was going to pull the event out of Wales after competitors were caught speeding between stages in 2002.