NEARLY 250 motorists were caught driving illegally on Burnley's road in just five days --putting people's lives at risk.

Police and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) carried out a joint clampdown against tax disc cheats in the borough, nabbing 244 motorists with out of date tax or none at all.

The man behind the drive today warned motorists the checks would continue to ensure Burnley's roads remained safe. Police community support officer (PCSO) Nigel Keates added many motorists with no tax also had no insurance or MoT certificate. He said: "If you wanted to find one particular class of dangerous vehicles then it would be ones without an MoT.

"If these have critical safety defects such as brakes or steering then they are a danger to other road users and the drivers.

"It's not an issue of lost revenue, it's an issue of public safety."

During the five-day crackdown, 74 vehicles were towed away by the DVLA for having no tax.

These will be crushed unless the owners pay their fines.

Another 170 were reported for late licensing or failing to display a valid tax disc.

Officials also warned a number of motorists about illegal number plates, such as ones with incorrect fonts or spacing. Car shops were also visited to ensure records of registration plate sales were maintained.

PCSO Keates added: "If there are any more tax dodgers out there in Burnley then beware!

"It's probably only a matter of time before we add you and your vehicle to our long list of successful targets."

Anyone who spots a car without a valid tax disc can contact the DVLA direct on 08000 325 202.