More than 70 traffic offences were issued to drivers during a crackdown by police.

Police patrols were deployed on main arterial routes across West Sussex last Friday, including the A27, A24, A23 and M23, from 5.30am, to catch people out.

Five people were reported to be dealt with at court and three motorists had their vehicles seized - two for no insurance and one a provisional licence holder driving outside their entitlement.

Officers also identified a stolen vehicle which was pursued into Hampshire, where Hampshire Police took over.

As a result of direct driver interventions, several referrals have been made to the COSTS (Company Operators' Safer Transport Scheme) in which drivers of company vehicles are offered advice and education through the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership.

Inspector Stewart Goodwin, of the West Sussex Road Policing Unit, said: "We hope to show by this type of operation that everyone taking to the roads has a responsibility to see that their vehicles are properly taxed, tested and insured and that they themselves are driving sensibly, safely and within the law.

"The operation involved a number of unmarked police vehicles specifically targeting the 'fatal four' - speed, seatbelts, drink/drug driving and using mobile phones while at the wheel.

"The Sussex and Surrey road policing department is committed to reducing crashes on the roads in both counties."

Advice can be sought from the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership via its website, www.sussexsaferroads.gov.uk or by calling 01273 404079.