More than 300 people were caught not wearing their seatbelts in Cambridgeshire last year, new figures have revealed.

There were 314 people across the county who were prosecuted for failing to wear a seatbelt in 2017.

It comes as officers are set to launch a campaign targeting those who don’t belt up in Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire from Monday.

In 2017 a total of 1,098 people were prosecuted for failing to wear a seatbelt across the three counties.

Hertfordshire came in with the highest amount at 420, while Bedfordshire followed behind with 364.

Those caught not wearing a seatbelt can face a fine of up to £500.

Inspector Chris Huggins, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire road policing unit, said: “The vast majority of road users wear a seatbelt, but unbelievably after more than 30 years of safety campaigns and legislation some people still don’t.

“The seatbelt can often be the difference between life and death for both drivers and passengers involved in a collision. The message is simple – wear it.

“It’s also important people wear the seatbelt correctly. We often see people wearing the strap under, rather than over, their arm. In the event of a collision this could cause serious injuries, particularly to women.

“If you have a young child please make sure they are in the correct car seat and that they are secured. If you are unsure of how to do this then please speak to the retailer you are buying the seat from.”

Officers will also be educating people about wearing seatbelts correctly and the importance of children being secured in the most appropriate seat for their age and height.

Police and crime commissioner, Jason Ablewhite said: “It’s unbelievable that people are still found to be travelling in cars without wearing seatbelts. Buckling up saves lives and crash impact films show what a difference having the correct car seat can make to your child’s protection.

“I would urge every parent to make sure they understand the regulations around child car seats.”

For information on the law concerning seatbelts visit: www.gov.uk/seat-belts-law.

Additional information on child car seats can also be found on the government’s website: www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules.