Yesterday (Thursday 25 July) officers from our Roads Policing Unit (PRU), Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG) and Staffordshire Moorlands local policing team (LPT) carried out a multi-agency operation in Leek as part of Operation Spotlight.

Operation Spotlight is part of a national road safety campaign running throughout July in a bid to reduce the number of casualties and crashes on our roads.

During yesterday’s operation, officers stopped a total of 32 vehicle for a number of different driving-related reasons. These ranged from a failing to wear a seatbelt, using a mobile phone, having insecure loads and vehicles with no braking. A number of other drivers were given advice on safely towing other vehicles like trailers and caravans.

T/Detective Inspector Jody Cruxton from RPU and CMPG said: “Operation Spotlight underpinned Operation Lightning, which is the force’s year-round response to the fatal four primary causes of death, serious injuries and criminal use on our roads.

“Yesterday’s operation focused on specific issues that affect our more rural communities such as agricultural vehicles, the transporting of animals and towing of trailers. This operation also focused on the education and engagement with drivers to ensure vehicles were safe and issues were rectified before impacting other road users.”

Jody added: “The reception from the majority of drivers was really positive and many people we spoke to had previously been victims of theft or crime, so they welcomed the proactive approach we took and the advice we shared.”

For advice on road safety and how to keep your vehicles safe, you can visit our website: https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/