POLICE will be targeting drivers using mobile phones in Gwent this month as part of an annual campaign.

The four police forces in Wales, led by South Wales Police in partnership with Road Safety Wales, have launched the annual all-Wales anti-mobile phone driving campaign which will run from October 15 to 31.

The Argus reported how last year’s campaign saw more than 100 motorists caught in Gwent using their mobile phones while at the wheel.

More than 1,000 drivers using their mobile phones were caught across Wales.

Police patrols to target mobile phone driving will increase across Welsh roads for the duration of the enforcement campaign to promote the safety message and raise awareness of the dangers and penalties among motorists.

During the campaign last year, in the Gwent area, 128 fixed penalty notices were issued, compared to 242 penalty notices given by South Wales Police and 454 by Dyfed Powys Police.

Inspector Lee Ford, of Gwent Police's roads policing unit, said: “We all see people using their phones while they are driving, and officers stop and prosecute hundreds of people in Gwent every month for doing just this.

“While prosecuting people for creating a danger to themselves and others is relatively effective we would rather that people understand that what they are doing is irresponsible, dangerous and wrong. When you drive leave your phone alone, if it helps reduce the temptation turn it off and keep it out of sight until you complete your journey

“This campaign will raise awareness about the issue and will hopefully lead to more drivers doing the right thing and obeying a law which is designed to keep them and other road users safe.