An uninsured van driver was immediately fined £500 after being caught using his mobile phone at the wheel.

The man was pulled over by police on the A229 Blue Bell Hill between Chatham and Maidstone at around 11am last Sunday (September 24).

He told officers he was in the UK on business and was out delivering goods. He was due to leave the country the following day.

Further checks on the van revealed the driver did not have insurance either.

He was issued with an on-the-spot fine of £500, which he paid immediately and was given 12 penalty points on his driving licence.

Insp Tom Pooley, from the tactical operations team, said: “Whilst the majority of motorists drive safely there are still some who think it is ok to use their mobile phones at the wheel and in this instance also drive without being insured for their vehicle.

“It takes a second to be distracted and cause a potentially fatal collision.

“A small mistake could be life-changing and furthermore, driving without adequate insurance is not only illegal but it is costly to all involved. It is simply not worth the risk.

“Road safety is a priority for Kent Police and officers will continue to target those who disregard the law.

“We have the power to issue on-the-spot fines instead of court summons and where we can, we will.”