A NATIONAL crackdown on people using their mobile phone behind the wheel in November caught nearly 50 people every hour - the highest ever total for a week targeting distracted drivers.

A total of 36 forces took part in the clampdown where 10,012 vehicles were stopped during the seven-day campaign but Wiltshire Police have refused to say how many drivers were caught in the county.

Instead, the force say the campaign was to inform and educate people in hope of creating a negative stigma towards driving while using a mobile phone and are hoping to do the same this week.

The figures nationally show that on average 47 drivers were caught on their phone every hour as more than 7,800 fixed penalty notices were issued as well as hundreds of verbal warnings given and 68 court summons.

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “It is good to know that roads policing officers are following up November’s week of action on mobile phones with a fresh campaign this week.

“In Wiltshire, and across the country, the enforcement action before Christmas, using unmarked vehicles, showed that far too many motorists have been prepared to take the risk of using their mobiles whilst at the wheel.

“People need to keep their eyes on the road and not allow themselves to be distracted, because a moment’s lapse can lead to tragedy.

"We must get the message across that a text, a phone call or a social media post must wait until we are safely parked.”

Tactics of catching the unlawful drivers included targeted patrols using unmarked vans, high vantage points and helmet cams to catch offenders and advising the public about new penalty changes.

From March 1, drivers caught using their phone will get six points on their licence and face a £200 fine.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council, which led November’s crackdown, have welcomed the new figures as they believe it makes people think twice about their driving habits.

NPCC lead for roads policing, chief constable Suzette Davenport said: “Encouraging results from last year’s campaign against mobile phone use show how effective new tactics and innovative approaches can be.

"Officers will continue to use intelligence-led tactics to target police activity and resources and catch repeat offenders.

“Remember: when at the wheel, your calls or texts can wait. Keep your eyes on the road.”