TAX dodgers in Chorley could be 'stung' while they are on the move for the very first time.

The cowboy motorists are to be targeted by new Stingray Cameras in a fresh crackdown on the crime.

Van-based camera units manned by DVLA staff have already launched a nationwide scheme.

The cameras -- operating form lay-bys and over-bridges -- will detect unlicensed vehicles as they travel along the road.

Stingray can work both day and night with vehicle speeds of more than 100mph.

They will read the number plates of passing vehicles, check them immediately against DVLA records and store electronically the images of those found to be unlicensed.

Transport Minister David Jamieson, who launched the scheme, said: "Road tax dodgers are now in the frame.

"The new DVLA camera teams can move quickly from location to location and those who previously took the risk of driving whilst unlicensed will soon realise that there is no place to hide.

"Honest motorists are fed up with seeing the hard core who continually evade paying their road tax.

"Camera technology will be brought to bear in targeting these evaders who will quickly realise that the penalties for evasion are much greater than the cost of a vehicle excise licence.

"Law abiding motorists have nothing to fear from the cameras. They will be used to target only those who evade paying their road tax.

"Before enforcement action is taken DVLA staff will ensure that the offence details match with the vehicle and licensing computer records.