More than 100 cars were targeted in the first four hours of a two-day clampdown on untaxed vehicles in Hollingdean, Brighton.

Some 50 cars were ticketed, 45 clamped and eight towed as officers from the DVLA joined police and council officers to trawl the area for abandoned motors.

The move comes after years of complaints that the estate is used as a dumping ground for wrecked and unwanted vehicles.

Phil Stevens, coordinator of the Government-funded Hollingdean Programme, said children were at risk from playing in abandoned cars and parking problems were common.

He said: "On its own the council has limited powers to deal with abandoned vehicles but together we can really get to grips with the problem.

"Clearing Hollingdean of untaxed and abandoned vehicles will not only improve look of the neighbourhood but also make it safer for local residents."

Today was the first of two days' intensive ticketing in the area.

PC Lorna Dennison, the new community policewoman, said there had been a mixed reception.

She said: "Residents have come out of their homes and applauded us because for so many years some drivers have been taking the mickey.

"But some people have come up to us shouting and screaming and threatening us with God knows what.

"A lot of the community want something done about this problem and the overall the public perception of this operation is that it's a winner."