ROADSIDE vehicle safety examinations have led to 14 unsafe traders' vans being banned from the road.

Lancashire County Council's trading standards department organised the checkpoints in Burnley, Pendle and Lancaster.

They were backed up by police officers and staff from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for a week of action aimed at tackling rogue traders.

Trading standards officers also visited 160 homes to give residents advice on avoiding falling victim to rogue traders.

The roadside checks led to the DVSA issued 14 immediate prohibitions and eight delayed prohibitions relating to vehicle safety

The police took enforcement action against three vehicles without insurance.

Cllr Peter Buckley, Lancashire County Council's community services boss, said: “We need to do everything we can to raise awareness of rogue traders and help prevent innocent people falling victim to these criminals.

"It's vital we work with traders to ensure they are operating lawfully.

"Working closely with the police and other agencies means we can intervene sooner and safeguard potential victims. "