CHORLEY Police are poised to launch a clampdown on the increasing number of motorists who continue to ignore the law and use their mobile phones when driving

During September 'Operation Chat' will see police officers stopping any vehicle seen with the driver or passenger acting in an unsafe manner.

The use of phones was outlawed last year, but police are concerned that the message has not got through to a considerable number of motorists.

In addition to the use of mobile phones, police are targeting passengers not wearing seat belts -- especially children seen in the back of vehicles without any form of restraint.

Motorist Natalie Benyon, of Wade Brook, Leyland, who was shopping in Euxton, said: "I think it's essential that children are properly fixed in, not only does it keep them safe, but it prevents them from distracting me as I'm driving."

Inspector Ian Roberts, of Chorley Police, said: "Our officers will be issuing £40 fixed-penalty notices to anyone we find to be breaking the law in this manner."

The operation begins as an RAC survey shows that more than a third of motorists still flout the law by using a hand-held mobile while driving.

The poll of 2,000 drivers also revealed that up to one in 10 drivers even admit texting at the wheel and a quarter drive while dangerously tired.

RAC spokesman Mark Hodge said: "Drivers using mobile phones pose a major threat to the safety of all road users.

"The law seems to have had little effect on attitudes."