A police operation aiming to crack down on the 'fatal four' causing road collisions is set to begin.

Operation Spotlight will focus on speeding, distractions such as mobile phone use, driving under the influence of drink or drugs, and not wearing a seatbelt, all of which have been identified as common causes of road accidents.

Last year, 56 people died in collisions and 468 people suffered serious injuries in our police force area.

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Almost a quarter of these incidents involved individuals aged between 16 and 24.

The campaign follows a successful operation in July, where 1,333 road offences were detected and 12,000 motorists were caught speeding.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) will run Operation Spotlight from September 23 to October 6.

Superintendent Stu Bill, of West Mercia Police, said: "Everyone knows the rules around seatbelts, drink/drug driving and mobile phones and the importance of sticking to the speed limit and we are very clear that when you get behind the wheel it is your responsibility to stay focused and alert.

"The majority of drivers use the roads respectfully and adhere to the law but it is concerning that we still have some drivers across our area who are willing to risk it.

"Newly qualified or younger drivers unfortunately do feature highly in our collision statistics so this national operation is welcome to highlight some of the issues.

"Enforcing the law across our roads on these issues and others is a year-round commitment for us to challenge this behaviour."

The operation will also include two road safety webinars, one for young drivers and their parents on Wednesday (September 25), and another on Tuesday (October 1) for young riders using mopeds or motorbikes.

The force has also placed emphasis on education.

The Green Light young driver and passenger education programme has been in place for over 10 years in Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

Workshops are delivered in colleges and sixth forms to students aged 16 and above, encouraging them to think about the choices they make and their impact on road safety.

The programme is supported by Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service’s ‘Your Impact’ programme, delivered to students aged 14 to 16.