WILTSHIRE Police is supporting the National Police Chief Council (NPCC) campaign, highlighting the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving.

New legislation is due to come in to force in March 2017, which makes significant changes to the penalties faced by motorists who continue to be distracted by a mobile phone.

Currently, drivers stopped while using a mobile phone are issued with three points and a £100 fine.

Under the new legislation, offenders will receive six penalty points and a £200 fine.

This legislation change will particularly affect new drivers. New drivers have their license revoked if they get six or more penalty points within two years of passing their test.

The NPCC campaign runs from January 23 – January 29 and follows on from a previous national effort that Wiltshire Police supported in November last year.

Tri Force roads policing inspector Frazer Davey said: “Our campaign in November showed that there are still far too many drivers willing to risk using their phones while behind the wheel their car, van or lorry.

“For that reason, our campaign this month will use unmarked police cars to target the people who are still willing to take a chance.

“My message is simple; using your phone while driving costs lives.”

Angus Macpherson, police and crime commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “People need to keep their eyes on the road and not allow themselves to be distracted, because a moment’s lapse can lead to tragedy.

"We must get the message across that a text, a phone call or a social media post must wait until we are safely parked.”