MOTORISTS have been warned they will be prosecuted if they don’t brush up their driving skills after police observed them jumping red lights, speeding and parking in disabled bays.

During a school holiday crackdown in Hyndburn, police also saw people driving while using a mobile phone and failing to maintain their vehicles.

PC Anna Gavela said that 83 motorists have received letters warning them about their law breaking and said they are putting other road users at risk.

PC Gavela said: “During the summer holiday period officers from Hyndburn Neighbourhood Policing Team mounted an operation to identify drivers who were committing traffic offences.

“A total of 83 drivers were observed committing traffic violations such as parking in disabled bays, contravening red lights, driving at excessive speeds, failing to maintain vehicles adequately and one motorist was even seen twice using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

“A huge number of vehicle were seen to have one or more lights not working properly at night, which is obviously quite risky.

“These drivers have been sent informal warning letters.” advising them that they are breaking the law in the hope that this will encourage them to modify their motoring behaviour.

“Failing to maintain vehicles properly and breaking Road Traffic laws makes our roads a more dangerous place than they otherwise would be.

“Drivers also risk prosecution if they continue to break the law, which can lead to being fined or even imprisoned.

“Insurance premiums will be higher following a motoring conviction and a ban from driving may severely hinder someone’s employment prospects.”