A NEW campaign to warn motorists of the dangers of using mobile phones at the wheel has been welcomed by Bolton Traffic Police.

The Government's "Think! Switch it off when you drive" campaign was launched in London yesterday. The crackdown, costing more than £250,000, will use hard-hitting radio and TV adverts to get the message over to motorists.

The campaign comes as latest research shows that 80 per cent of car drivers own or have access to a mobile phone. The studies also claim drivers using mobiles are four times more likely to have an accident.

Sgt Barry Fairclough, of Bolton Police Traffic Unit, said: "We wholeheartedly agree with the latest Government initiative.

"Using a mobile phone while driving a car prevents the motorist from concentrating on the road and may lead to accidents which could end in people having serious injuries. We advise all motorists not to use mobile phones, hands-free or otherwise, behind the wheel."

Road Safety Minister David Jamieson said: "Even the most careful of drivers will be distracted by a phone call or text message and that will affect their concentration and anticipation.

"Our advice is to use your voicemail or message service, or to stop in a safe place if you need to use your phone. Missing a call won't kill you, but an accident could."