A crackdown has revealed children were among hundreds of motorists whose lives were at risk by not wearing seatbelts, police said.

Officers found nine youngsters had not been properly strapped in during their journeys in Kent – while more than 350 motorists were reported for the offence.

Police say they are “troubled” after discovering offenders were “needlessly putting lives at risk” during the two-week operation, which ran from June 12 to 25.

Inspector David Crompton of the roads police unit, explained: "Putting on a seatbelt is such a simple thing to do and can be the difference between someone being unhurt in a collision or them being seriously injured or worse.

"It is therefore concerning to see that so many people are still needlessly putting their lives at risk.

"It is also troubling that on nine occasions we had to take action against a motorist who failed to ensure a child in their vehicle was suitably restrained, which is simply unacceptable.

"Anyone who does not wear a seatbelt risks receiving an on-the-spot fine of £100, which can rise to as much as £500 if prosecuted, but your life and the lives of others driving in your vehicle are worth so much more. Please just wear a seatbelt."

Officers say not wearing a seatbelt is one of the ‘fatal factors’ most likely to cause someone to die or be seriously injured in a collision.

The others are speeding, using a mobile phone or other device at the wheel, and driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs.