Limousines seized in spot check

Limousines were being checked at the height of the party season

Three limousines have been seized and nine others given prohibitions as part of a safety crackdown by Sussex Police.

Operation Fantasia was carried out in Brighton over the weekend in an effort to combat companies which do not take care of their vehicles.

Limousines were stopped to see if they complied with road traffic law and were fit to transport passengers.

Officials from several agencies checked brakes, tyres, exhaust systems and lights, as well as road licences.

Drugs seized

Sgt Peter Verney, of Sussex Police, said: "We want them [revellers] to come to Brighton and Hove. We want them to enjoy themselves.

"But we want them to do so knowing that the vehicle they get into is safe."

The multi-agency approach involved police, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency, Brighton and Hove City Council, the DVLA and taxi licensing.

Vehicles given a prohibition order are not allowed back on the road until the defect is rectified.

Drivers have to apply to the police to get the cars re-checked and the order lifted.

The operation previously ran in August when six vehicles were taken off the road and drugs were also found.