Shocking numbers of drivers caught not wearing a seatbelt in Tarporley.

Mar 20 2009 by Naomi Dunning, Chester Chronicle

A POLICE community support officer said she was shocked and concerned at the number of people caught driving through a village not wearing a seatbelt on a Driver Engagement Day.

Twenty-four motorists were caught without a seatbelt in under four hours in Tarporley, while a further 15 were caught speeding.

Cheshire Police held a driver awareness day in partnership with Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service on February 25. Officers concentrated on those motorists speeding in the village, not wearing a seatbelt and using their mobile phones while driving.

Those caught could either pay a fine and receive penalty points on their licence or go to the fire station in the village and watch a harrowing video about the consequences of these actions.

Tarporley PCSO Emily Benson said: “I was shocked and surprised how many people were caught not wearing a seatbelt.

“It should be a habit to get in the car and put your seatbelt on. It will save your life.

“We were expecting to catch speeders because Nantwich Road is known for speeding, but the numbers not wearing a seatbelt was very concerning.”

She added: “After seeing the video many people did understand and found it very educational.

“I think days like this are very useful, because often people just pay the fine and do not change their attitudes. This video makes them think.”