MOTORWAY police are warning travelling criminals to beware after taking delivery of a unique pair of "eyes and ears".

A new system has been installed in two patrol cars which checks every passing vehicle - even on the busiest motorways - and alerts officers to those of police interest with an audible alarm.

The system, known as LAPCOP, has been put in one marked and one unmarked vehicle, which have already started patrolling Lancashire's motorways.

The introduction of LAPCOP is part of a plan by Lancashire Police to develop mobile automatic number plate recognition systems.

The Lancashire Partnership Against Crime is funding development costs of £5,000.

Motorway Inspector Peter Stas said: "Travelling criminals contribute significantly to overall crime levels in Lancashire. The five motorways in Lancashire provide easy access to all parts of the country."

Last year, some 300 offenders were arrested by officers for a variety of serious offences including burglary, theft and drug trafficking, mainly due to stop checks.

This new equipment will be able to identify targets more easily, with minimum disruption to law-abiding drivers.

ZIn a separate police campaign, drivers are being warned to keep their speed down on a busy motorway junction in the coming months. Narrow lanes and a contraflow are set to be introduced at the junction of the M6 and M55 as part of a major repair scheme.

Police are determined to enforce a speed limit of 50mph and are planing to install speed cameras.

Inspector Stas said: "Our primary concern is the safety of motorway users and site workers that has led to the 50mph speed limit.

"Experience shows us that there is still an irresponsible minority who drive at inappropriate speeds for conditions."

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