BUS drivers in Preston are being targeted by plain-clothes policemen in a bid to cut the number of accidents.

More than 40 people were injured in bus-related incidents last year in Lancashire Constabulary's Central Division - the highest figure for any divisional area in Lancashire.

Now officers will be keeping an eye on the behaviour of Preston's bus drivers in the hope that the number of accidents can be cut in the coming months. In a report to Preston Borough Council's transportation committee, police officers revealed the sort of offences they were looking out for.

Sgt Moxham, of Central Division's road safety unit, said: "The campaign involves plain clothes police officers travelling on board buses in order to detect any offences.

"They are looking for incidents including the driver not being in proper control of his vehicle because he is handling change, changing the destination boards or drinking while the bus is moving." Spot checks, speed trap and condition checks are also being carried out while special attention is being paid to the behaviour of bus drivers.

Bus operators are also being told to make sure bus passengers are fully aware of the hazards that exist on buses, including remaining seated at all times.

Sgt Moxham added: "It is also the police view that bus drivers should have more consideration as to the needs of passengers, particularly the elderly, disabled and young passengers."

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