Large numbers of South Yorkshire drivers are breaking bus lane laws

Ninety-seven motorists were caught in Sheffield, 28 in Doncaster and 10 in Rotherham between 29 September and 4 October. They were each fined �30.

Sheffield City Council said: "The sheer number of offenders caught in a short time shows there's a real problem."

Offences included driving and parking illegally in bus lanes and driving through bus gates.

Acting Insp Mick Booth, from South Yorkshire Police, said: "We're determined to stop this behaviour, which not only makes it difficult for buses to get to their destination but also for motorists and cyclists."

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive welcomed the police clampdown, saying it would help clear the way for "the smoother running of traffic on our main roads".

Drivers are warned that officers will continue to patrol bus routes throughout South Yorkshire over the coming weeks.