AN OPERATION to highlight road safety was successfully carried out by the Special Constabulary in the Dursley inspector neighbourhood area.

Special Constables conducted checks in Cam, Dursley, Newport and Wotton-under-Edge between 7pm on Friday and 1am the following day.

Eight Specials took part in the operation that saw them stopping and speaking to drivers of 124 vehicles about road safety.

Six drivers were given verbal cautions for offences including speeding, not wearing seat-belts and using mobile phones.

They were also asked to watch a road safety video in the East Gloucestershire mobile police station which supported the operation.

Two arrests were made of motorists suspected of drink-driving, although one was released without charge. The other has been bailed pending further inquiries to report back to Stroud police station on Friday, December 12.

A further two motorists were reported for not having valid road tax discs for their cars.

Special Constable Steve Lindsay said: "We were very pleased with the results of this operation and all the motorists took on board what we had to say.

"Issues of irresponsible or careless driving had been raised as a concern by people living in the Dursley area and this operation was in response to that."

SC Lindsay also emphasised the importance of careful driving now that the dangerous driving conditions of the winter were approaching.

He added: "With the clocks going back very shortly it also served as a timely reminder for motorists about the worsening driving conditions which they will face.

"If we catch any motorists who have been driving in a careless or reckless manner which is inappropriate for the weather conditions, then we will take action."

Assistant Chief Constable Craig Mackey said the success of the operation highlighted the contribution the Special Constabulary is making to policing in Gloucestershire.

He said: "Specials are now involved in a wide range of operational policing duties - the same duties as regular officers - and they bring about noticeable reductions in crime and disorder.

"By becoming a Special, volunteers are not only benefiting the community, they are also improving their own training and development, and I hope more people will consider joining the Special Constabulary in the county."

Anyone wanting to find out more about becoming a Special Constable in Gloucestershire should contact the Special Constabulary co-ordinator on 01242 276720, or visit the Gloucestershire Constabulary website at www.gloucestershire.police.uk