A NUMBER of drivers were caught not obeying road laws after a large police presence was seen outside a pub near Worcester.

The Nightingale on Evesham Road provided West Mercia Police with a base today (Thursday) to catch drivers and find people involved in illegal activity.

Police, DVSA and Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) focused on coaches, minibuses, people carriers, and other vehicles that transport workers to various local factories and fields within the Vale of Evesham. 

The aim was to identify any vehicles in a poor state of repair, driving illegally or carrying any workers who may be subject to labour exploitation or modern slavery.

The group had been on the scene since 5am and had reported that it had been a very successful morning. 

(Image: Newsquest) Two vehicles were seized during the operation, one for not being insured and the other for having a disqualified driver.

Several traffic offence reports were also issued, and DVSA restriction notices were issued for non-roadworthy tyres. 

Alice Jeffrey, Sgt South Worcestershire Problem Solving Hub, said: "In relation to the police presence at The Nightingale Pub this morning, I can advise that a pre-planned multi-agency op was taking place involving Police, DVSA and GLAA focussing on coaches, minibuses, people carriers, and vehicles who transport workers to various local factories and fields within the Vale of Evesham. 

"The operation set out to identify any vehicles in a poor state of repair, identifying any driving [license] offence and any workers who may be subject to labour exploitation and/or modern slavery.

"The morning was a success with two vehicles seized, one disqualified driver and several traffic offence reports issued.

"DVSA restriction notices were issued for non-roadworthy tyres. 

"There was also intelligence gathering with a number of those travelling upon the vehicles stopped."