POLICE stopped a car travelling on the M4 near Swindon which had bicycles covering its number plate and rear lights.

Officers caught the vehicle driving westbound between junction 17 and the Leigh Delamere Services last week.

They are reminding drivers heading off on holidays around the UK during the summer months to ensure vehicles are road legal when fully-packed and will not increase the risk of causing a crash.

Sgt Will Ayres of the Roads Policing Unit said: “We are seeing more people travelling in their vehicles for holidays in the UK as government restrictions lift on travel.

“We urge drivers to ensure their vehicles are safe before setting off on, usually, long journeys.

“This includes checking tyre pressures, fuel and oil levels and ensuring that anything attached to your vehicle is done so securely and legally.

“Bikes need to be secured correctly and the lights and registration plate must be clearly visible to cars behind.

“Lighting boards and duplicate plates that go over the bikes is a good option and considerably cheaper than the fines drivers can face or potential vehicle prohibitions if this is not followed.

“Please don’t leave on your trip in a vehicle that is unfit for the road. Get to your destination safely.”

To find out more about road safety and keeping your vehicle fit for the road, visit www.think.gov.uk