It was a case of buckle up or spend bucks as Kent Police carried out a large scale crack-down on driving offences.

The operation on Saturday, August 2, saw special constables stop 83 vehicles, confiscating one and issuing 17 fines.

The voluntary officers set up static road checks along the A20, London Road in Allington, Maidstone, to identify drivers in breach of traffic legislation.

Officers issued a total of 17 fines for not wearing seatbelts and confiscated one car after the owner, who was reported to the courts, was found to be driving whilst disqualified and without insurance.

Additionally three vehicles were reported for not having valid MOT certificates.

The operation was assisted by officers from Home Office Immigration Enforcement and the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency, which prohibited seven vehicles from being driven due to defects.

Specials development officer, PC Ian Packer said the day was aimed primarily at protecting road users from serious harm or injury.

PC Packer said: "Drivers were targeted who we believe were putting themselves, as well as other road users and members of the public, at risk of serious injury.

"It is simply unacceptable in this day and age to not be wearing a seatbelt, whether you are the driver or a passenger in a back seat and the penalties road users have incurred will hopefully make them think twice in the future."

He added: "It is up to motorists to ensure that their vehicles are regularly maintained and fit for purpose.

"Problems such as a faulty brake light or worn tyres can considerably increase the chances of you being involved in accidents. Indeed, the consequences of a collision as a result of defects on your vehicle are likely to be far higher than the cost of replacing parts or making repairs."