Anyone found not to have legal tax could have the vehicle seized

Officers from Devon and Cornwall are being given new powers aimed at improving safety on the roads.

Police have said the new legislation could leave criminals without transport, with suspect vehicles being seized at the roadside.

During a recent pilot scheme officers seized about 70 vehicles, including an HGV vehicle.

Law-abiding motorists have nothing to fear Insp Richard Pryce, Devon & Cornwall Police

Under the scheme, anyone thought to be driving without insurance or a licence faces court fines, penalty points and a recovery fee.

Drivers will only be able to collect cars when they provide the right documents. Uncollected vehicles will be crushed or sold.

Insp Richard Pryce said number plates will be checked using specialist camera equipment in addition to manual checks by officers.

He said: "Uninsured drivers are a real danger and a liability to everyone else on the road.

"If they are in a collision, the innocent driver can often be left without compensation. In the event that someone is killed, the situation is even worse.

"Law-abiding motorists have nothing to fear, as long as they have a valid driving licence and are insured."

The new powers will come into effect throughout Devon and Cornwall in October.