Lancashire has the most speed cameras in the north of England

The change will apply to the less serious offences and follows criticism of the use the cameras in the county.

None of the cameras will be moved or taken away.

It follows widespread criticism of the force's policy on speed cameras. Mr Stephenson said the campaign to cut down on speeding would continue.

He said: "We're going to start introducing some cautions in that bottom end range where previously we have been prosecuting.

"I think that's a good way of trying to achieve the same outcomes and the same levels of safety, but influence driver behaviour and still keep the public support.

"I know the public do support our campaign on this."

Lancashire has 300 recently-installed speed cameras - more than anywhere else in the north of England.

They have been derided by motorists as money-making machines for the police and drew criticism after the number of road deaths in Lancashire rose to 87 from 66 the previous year.

This appeared to contradict Department of Transport statements that speed cameras would reduce accidents.