MOTORISTS in Bolton are continuing to flout the law by using their mobile phones while driving.

More than 5,000 people in Greater Manchester have been caught using hand-held phones since it became illegal last December.

Police have promised to continue to crack down on drivers who ignore the ban.

For the first two months, officers opted to issue warnings during "a period of grace" and spoke to 2,141 drivers.

From then until end of July this year, a total of 3,155 fixed penalty notices were issued.

This includes 553 drivers who were caught during the first two weeks of a summer crackdown.

Insp Brian Wood, Greater Manchester Police's Road Safety Officer, said the message was still not getting through.

"There is a minority who are still insist on breaking the law," he said.

"Using a phone affects their concentration and puts other road users at risk.

"Recently, a driver was sent to prison for using a mobile phone while driving following an accident which resulted in the death of another road user.

"Drivers still think it is acceptable to use their phones. They believe it does not affect their concentration, particularly if they are making short calls.

"While investigating an accident, if we suspect someone was on the phone, we will check their phone records.

"We will continue to be vigilant and if we catch people, we will also consider bringing other offences against them as well."

Those caught using their phones were handed a £30 fixed penalty notice.

The fine can be increased to a maximum of £1,000 for car drivers, and £2,500 for coach, lorry and bus drivers if the offence is taken to court.

Research shows that drivers are four times more likely to have an accident if they use a mobile phone while driving because of the adverse effect on concentration and anticipation.

Drivers also risk prosecution for careless or dangerous driving or failing to have proper control of their vehicle if using a mobile phone affects their driving.