Officers carry out successful road safety operation

Officers have carried out a successful road safety operation in Cheddleton which resulted in over 60 vehicles being stopped.

Officers from the Roads Policing Unit worked with the Moorlands Local Policing Team to set up a checkpoint on the A520 on Thursday (20 October).

The aim of the operation was to deter speeding motorists on the 50mph stretch and prevent any serious collisions or traffic-related incidents.

The checkpoint was in operation from 9am to midday, with officers stopping 65 vehicles during this period.

Of these, a number of driving offences were identified, including six vehicle prohibitions being issued. Two vans and a seven-and-a-half tonne tipper wagon were found to have illegal tyres fitted.

Fixed penalties were issued for a vehicle having not had an MOT and for another vehicle having an insecure load.

Following checks in Leek, officers were supported by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in identifying a vehicle found to be running on red diesel. This resulted in a £530 fine being issued.

PC Adam Tonks, of the Moorlands Local Policing Team, said: “While many drivers were law abiding, it was shocking how many vehicles officers found a cause to pull-over during the operation.

“These operations are carried out to help keep our roads safe – and stop drivers from using vehicles which are dangerous.

“When a van or truck is carrying too much it becomes hard to manage and, therefore, the chances of it being involved in a road traffic collision are increased. The same can be said for loads which are not secure as items falling from vehicles can cause serious problems. We must also ensure that HGV drivers are taking the correct number of breaks.

“We will continue to support the communities by dealing with safety on our roads.”

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Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or call 999 in an emergency.