Speeder warned he faces prison for owing 1p from court fine

Brad Strutt, 25, from Wortley, Leeds, received a 350 speeding fine 18 months ago, which he believed he had paid in full and was puzzled to receive the demand.

Mr Strutt, who works for Leeds charity St Anne's Community Services, said he was a "bit worried" when he saw the letter.

"I couldn't work out why they had gone to all the effort of asking me for a penny when putting out the letter must have cost much more than that," he added.

The demand was received from Her Majesty's Court Service's (HMCS) West Yorkshire Collection and Enforcement Centre in Morley.

It sets out penalties Mr Strutt could face for failing to pay up including being taken to court where he could be committed to prison.

The letter also warns the matter could be recorded in the Register of Judgements, Orders and Fines, making it hard for him to get mortgages and other credit, and bailiffs could be given the right to seize some of his property to recover the debt.

Last night an HMCS spokesperson said the letter had been sent in error.

"HMCS takes its fine enforcement responsibilities very seriously," he said.

"This automated letter was sent to Mr Strutt in error. We understand that he has since been in contact with the West Yorkshire Enforcement Centre and settled his account balance.

"We apologise for any inconvenience."