Ashley Cole challenged to attend speed course

Jan 29 2010 By Matt Lewis

England and Chelsea footballer Ashley Cole

Footballer Ashley Cole has been challenged to attend a speed awareness course by the leader of Surrey County Council.

The offer of attending a community speedwatch event, was issued by council leader Dr Andrew Povey, after the Chelsea and England defender was convicted of dangerous driving at Kingston Magistrates Court.

Cole, 29, from Goldalming, received a four month driving ban on January 29 for his driving his Lamborghini at 104mph in a 50mph zone in Kingston. The footballer claimed he was being chased by paparazzi photographers and is to appeal.

Dr Povey said: "Ashley Cole is an outstanding footballer in a leading football team and as such is an important role model for young people. I am inviting Ashley to come and take part in a community speedwatch, run as part of our joint Drive Smart campaign with Surrey Police."

As part of his punishment Cole was fined £1,000 fine, and must pay a £15 victim surcharge and £300 costs. Cole's legal team requested the Chelsea defender be given 21 days to pay, which magistrates laughed at but agreed to.

Cole is yet to respond to Dr Povey's request, but the Council leader hopes the England star considers his offer seriously. Dr Povey said: "We have contacted his agent and are looking forward to hearing back from him."

The £1m brainchild of Dr Povey, Drive Smart is a year long campaign by Surrey Council and Surrey police to address the problem of anti-social driving in the area.