An Ashford doctor has successfully protested a fine after it was decided he had acted reasonable at a speed camera hot spot.

Dr Shariq Lanker was driving coastbound in the inside lane past junction 7 of the M20 for Detling and Maidstone last June when he exceeded the variable limit of 50mph.

Appearing at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, the 39-year-old locum medic pleaded not guilty, arguing the temporary restriction was not clearly indicated.

The stretch of motorway is notorious for catching drivers out, with variable limits often in place.

Dr Lanker, of Freathy Lane, Ashford, explained the limit was illuminated above the lanes heading towards the slip road but not above the one he was travelling in.

Assuming the national limit was in place in his lane he proceeded accordingly.

But police confirmed if a variable speed is displayed above just one lane it affects the entire highway.

However, upon hearing Dr Lanker’s arguments chair of the bench Alan Golding decided he had acted reasonably.

He said: “I consider myself a reasonable man and I think I would have done the same in this situation.”

Steven Mould, prosecuting, told magistrates it was not in the public interest to pursue the prosecution and offered no evidence.

Dr Lanker was awarded £20 in travel costs.