Police have stepped up patrols in Halliwell to catch motorists breaking the law in response to concerns by residents.

Last night one driver was arrested while another had his car seized, and police have been carrying out general enforcement checks after concerns were raised that some drivers are using their phone at the wheel.

A motorist was arrested after police say they clocked him driving at speed in Halliwell.

Officers said the spotted the car on Ivy Road.

The 38-year-old man was detained and arrested.

A spokesman for GMP Bolton North said: "The vehicle initially failed to stop for officers, but was spotted moments later on a nearby street. The driver, a 38-year-old male was detained and arrested for Section 4 Road Traffic Act (on suspicion of being) unfit through drink or drugs, failing to stop and possession of an offensive weapon.

The man remains in police custody for questioning.

Police also seized a car yesterday in Halliwell after seeing it being driven on Avenue Street.

A spokesman said "The vehicle was stopped due to the manner of driving and enquiries established that the driver did not have insurance to drive the vehicle. Vehicle seized under S165 Road Traffic Act and driver was issued a Traffic Offence Report."

The spokesman added: "PC Dean has been targeting traffic offences in the Halliwell area following concerns raised from the community. One issue that has been identified is the use of mobile phones whilst driving.

"It is an offence to use a handheld mobile device whilst driving and could result in six points being added to your licence, and up to £1000 fine.

"If you would like to have a say on policing in your community, keep an eye out for upcoming posts detailing the next PACT meeting and come down to meet your local neighbourhood policing team."

Residents in Halliwell have called for action to make the roads safer, including installing speed cameras after a number of crashes.

A petition for the cameras on Halliwell Road attracted hundreds of signatures, exceeding its original target.

Campaigners now say they are ready to take the proposal to the next step.