West Mercia Police, the Safer Roads Partnership and National Fire Chiefs Council have supported the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) mobile phone week of action this week, by targeting motorists who continue to use their handheld mobile phone at the wheel.

It's nearly a year since new legislation was introduced, increasing both the fine and licence points if caught using a mobile phone while behind the wheel. Motorists caught using a handheld mobile phone while driving face a £200 fine and six points on their licence.

Drivers caught twice face a lengthy ban – which could also then lead to a £1,000 fine – while new drivers - those who have passed within the last two years - face having their licence revoked if caught just once.

Since March 2017 1268 drivers in West Mercia have been caught using their mobile phone while at the wheel.

West Mercia Police Chief Constable, Anthony Bangham, National Police Chiefs' Council Lead for Roads Policing, said: "Driving while distracted by a mobile phone is completely unacceptable and puts everyone on the roads at risk of serious harm.

"We are making use of the tougher penalties to clamp down on this dangerous behaviour - but we have to be clear that when you get behind the wheel it is your responsibility to stay focused and alert.

"It's concerning that we still have drivers out there who are willing to risk driving while distracted and it is a year round commitment for us to challenge this behaviour across West Mercia."

Station Manager James Bainbridge from Shropshire Fire and Rescue added: "In Shropshire, Fire Crews are often called to attend road traffic collisions where the use of a mobile phone whilst driving has been a contributory factor.

"It takes no more than a moment of distraction for an accident to occur that is capable of causing serious life changing injuries and death - not only to the driver/phone user, but also to their passengers and other innocent road users."