POLICE have urged drivers to put their phones out of sight when driving after catching a motorist using their mobile while behind the wheel this week, despite tougher new sanctions coming in at the beginning of the month.

Officers from North Swindon Community Police Team spent the morning conducting vehicle checks in the Coate Water and County Road areas of Swindon on Wednesday.

A spokesman for North and East Swindon Police said: "In total, we issued two tickets for having no insurance which resulted in a £300 fine and six points each, a ticket for no MOT which resulted in a £100 fine and a fine for using a mobile phone whilst driving which was a £200 and six points on the licence.

"We also reclaimed one stolen van, returning it to its rightful owner and arresting one male responsible.

"We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to check their insurance and MOT details before driving a vehicle, and to also put their phone out of sight while driving.

"Out of sight, out of mind.’’

The penalties for using a mobile phone while driving were doubled at the beginning of March.