Crackdown on scrap metal lorries

The officers worked alongside representatives from Custom and Excise and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA), stopping motorists driving vans, trucks and other large vehicles.

Although nobody was found to be conveying scrap metal, 24 fines of 80 were issued for offences including speeding, using a mobile phone at the wheel and not wearing a seatbelt.

Customs and Excise tested for the use of red diesel and had three positive results, where a fine of at least 500 was given.

VOSA examined vehicles for roadworthiness and stopped 15 motorists from driving on until faults were rectified. Pc Clare Sidaway, of South Yorkshire Police said: "We didn't retrieve any stolen metal this time, however, we will be carrying out similar operations like this in the future with the hope of doing so."