As part of a neighbourhood operation in Wokingham town centre last Thursday (May 10), Thames Valley Police pulled over 28 people for not buckling up and putting their own lives at risk. 

Wokingham Borough Council’s road safety team accompanied road safety constable for Wokingham PC Maxine Tovey and neighbourhood officers to clamp down on motorists and passengers flouting seatbelt and mobile laws. 

The teams issued penalty notices and advice to drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts. As an alternative to a ticket for £60 a reduction in the fine of £35 was offered, if offenders were prepared to complete an online Seatbelt Safe Scheme survey. They will then receive road safety education to deter them from offending in future, instead of just a financial punishment. 

Drivers using their mobile phones were also targeted and ticketed during the operation. 

Julie Pillai, Wokingham Borough Council road safety officer, said: "Not being restrained by a seatbelt greatly reduces your chances of survival in an accident and it is hard to understand why people do not value their well-being more highly. Hopefully our checks will help to raise awareness of the issue; it is a simple action to save your life."

PC Maxine Tovey, road safety constable, said: "This neighbourhood operation, working in partnership with the police and road safety, is beneficial to improving safety through the town for drivers and passengers."