Police stopped more than 600 vehicles for roadchecks in a two-day operation in Chelmsford.

Twenty-two were unsafe and were immediately removed from the road.

The operation also saw seven arrests for vehicle crime and seven for excess alcohol. More than 200 offences were recorded.

A coach full of day-trippers did not have a current MOT.

The operation was a joint partnership between the Chelmsford police traffic section, divisional officers from Chelmsford, the Special Constabulary, Customs and the Department of Transport.

The vehicles immediately removed from the road included lorries, coaches and cars. Another 11 car drivers were issued with fixed penalty notices.

Inspector Roy Trucker, of the traffic police, said: "I am still astonished by how many drivers believe they can take to the roads when they are endangering not only themselves but other road users."

The safety checks on two Saturdays, July 15 and 29, were on the A414.

Because of the success of the first Saturday, when 18 officers were involved, the second day saw 46 brought in.

"It causes our officers some concern when we catch a coach full with day-trippers without an MOT and generally in bad shape," said Insp Trucker.

"You wonder whether companies have any regard for the welfare of their customers, let alone the general public."

Other checks are being planned by the combined operation team.

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