Police have been taking part in a crackdown against drivers using mobile phones at the wheel- with the aid of an unmarked detection van equipped with cameras.

Officers from Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire road policing unit are carrying out the operation as part of a week-long national initiative.

Inspector Chris Huggins said: “The unmarked detection van has proven to be a vital tool in targeting drivers in a range of vehicles who use a mobile phone illegally.

“Often members of the public will put their phone away when they see a marked police vehicle, but the knowledge of an unmarked van on patrol may hopefully deter a greater number of people from being irresponsible and using their phone behind the wheel.”

The van is equipped with front and side cameras designed to catch lorry, van and car drivers who are using mobile devices illegally.

In a similar operation last year the tri-force unit caught 2,047 people using phones while driving.

Sgt Andy Spencer, RPU operational support, said: “We understand how frustrating it is for the public who repeatedly see people using a phone while driving, potentially putting others at risk in their local community.

“Throughout this week of action, we are actively responding to responses we have had from the public on Twitter suggesting which areas they would like to see us patrol.”

The road policing unit asked members of the public where they would like to see a greater police presence with regard to mobile phone use while driving.