Motorists were today warned to think carefully before using their mobile phone while driving.
From today, police will be issuing a £60 fine and three penalty points to anyone caught using a handset while driving.
PC Steve Woods, of Stanway road policing unit, said for patrols it would be "business as usual" but he warned motorists there would be no escaping the penalties.
He said: "We won't be doing anything specific - it will be business as usual in terms of our patrols.
"But we will be looking out for anyone using their mobile phone and we will be enforcing the new legislation."
PC Woods explained that while motorists are talking on the phone they are not giving their full attention to the road or anyone else on it.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article