Fewer drivers caught using phones

Fewer motorists are being caught using their mobile phones in Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

West Mercia Police said 381 people were caught breaking the law last month, a fall of about 15% on the number spotted by police in the previous month.

Tougher penalties have been introduced meaning those caught are fined £60 and receive three points on their licence.

The force said research showed using a phone while driving makes drivers four times more likely to crash.

It welcomed the reduction but said the figures were still too high.