Operation targets fuel fraud

The "red" diesel can cause damage to car engines

Customs officers are targeting motorists across the North West who use "red" diesel in their cars.

The fuel - which has dye added and is used in agricultural vehicles - cannot be used on road vehicles.

Officers seized nine vehicles which were running on the fuel at Chelford market in Macclesfield, Cheshire - and say similar operations are planned.

Seven special trailers are being used by customs officers in the region, which allows them to do a roadside test on fuel.

Any vehicle found running on the illegal diesel will be confiscated.

Jeremy Lee, Customs' head of detection in the North West, said: "The trailers allow a much more flexible method of working and they can be deployed at short notice.

"Motorists need to be aware of the full costs of buying cheap diesel.

"It puts honest filling stations out of business, puts the motorist's vehicle at risk of serious engine damage and robs the taxpayer of money for public services."