A new campaign has been launched today to crackdown on motorist using their phones at the wheel.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has launched the campaign 'Put it Away' today.

Officers are targetting those behind the wheel making calls, send messages, play music and check road conditions.

RPU Sergeant Ian Manley said: “Using a mobile phone whilst driving significantly increases your chances of being involved in a serious, even fatal collision.

“I hope this campaign helps to get an important safety message across to the public that using a mobile phone whilst driving is unacceptable. It puts not only your life at risk, but also the lives of others.

“We urge people to turn their phone off before they start their journey and put it away. Even a brief distraction could have serious consequences.”

Hertfordshire Police will be running a week of enforcement from today until Sunday.

The operation coincides with a week-long campaign being conducted by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC).

Currently penalties include a £100 fine and three points on your driving licence.

It is anticipated the penalties will rise to £200 and six points in early March 2017, although this is yet to be confirmed.

Newly qualified drivers who acquire six points on their licence within two years of obtaining it will automatically lose it.

Report other drivers using their mobiles to Operation Crackdown via operationcrackdown.org