MOTORISTS across South Cheshire are being warned to stop using mobile phones when they are driving - because it will be illegal from Monday.

The law will see anyone caught using a hand-held mobile hit with an instant £30 fine, or up to a £1,000 if a case reaches the courts.

Text messaging will also not be tolerated by traffic officers and only the use of certain hands-free mobile kits will be allowed.

Research has shown that drivers are four times more likely to have an accident if they drive and use a mobile phone.

The law has the full backing of police officers, who are urging drivers to 'break the habit'.

Sgt Steve Griffiths, of Crewe Traffic Unit, said: 'Every day I still see dozens of people driving along with phones in their hand or cradled in their shoulder. People need to break the habit now.

'They would be well advised to switch off the phone or even put it in the boot and get used to making journeys without these calls.

'If we see someone breaking the law, we can stop them and issue a ticket.

'If the circumstances are that we can't stop the vehicle easily, we can simply take the number and trace the driver in the usual way.'

Motorists can still be prosecuted for using a phone at the wheel before the law comes into force - or a hands-free mobile afterwards - if they do not appear to be driving safely.

The law requires drivers to be in control of their vehicle at all times, which means police can act if a driver does not appear to be so, or is driving carelessly or dangerously.