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Dozens of drivers have been caught not wearing a seatbelt as police in Suffolk continue with a week-long enforcement campaign.

Officers from the Norfolk and Suffolk Roads Policing Unit are carrying out checks on motorists and their passengers as part of the Europe-wide TISPOL seatbelt enforcement initiative running from Monday 7 September until Sunday 13 September.

The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of how many collision-related injuries and fatalities can be prevented by the wearing of seatbelts and more than 60 drivers have been dealt with for the offence so far in both counties.

Chief Inspector Chris Spinks, head of the Norfolk and Suffolk Roads Policing Unit, said he still finds it hard to imagine why drivers would take risks by not wearing a seatbelt.

"The safety value in wearing a seatbelt is obvious; it’s shocking that in this day and age we still find people are prepared to take risks with their lives by not wearing one.

"Putting on your seatbelt should be part of your routine before starting any journey no matter how short and its imperative driver’s make sure passengers belt up as well."

Suffolk Police and Crime Commission, Tim Passmore, said: "I fully support the Constabulary’s campaign to crack down on irresponsible drivers who still refuse to buckle up whilst driving.

"I really cannot believe that anyone could set off in their vehicle without securing their seat-belt first and ensuring their passengers are doing the same.

"Statistics show that you’re twice as likely to die in a crash if you don't wear a seat belt, so I just can’t understand why anyone would flout this law."

Not wearing a seatbelt is one of the ‘fatal four’ behaviours along with speeding, drink driving and using a mobile phone that makes you more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a collision.