ALMOST 100 motorists were caught driving illegally on Burnley's roads in just three days - putting people's lives at risk.

Police and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) carried out a joint clampdown on tax disc cheats in the borough, nabbing 96 offenders.

Now 39 owners face having to pay up to £280 to get their vehicles back, or have them crushed, after the DVLA clamped or towed them to a compound.

The remaining 57 motorists will receive an unwelcome Christmas surprise through the post - an £80 fine.

Police Community Support Officer Nigel Keates helped co-ordinate the crackdown with PC Richard Collopy.

He said: "The concern that most members of the public express is that if a vehicle is not taxed, then it probably doesn't have insurance, or a valid MoT certificate either.

"If you wanted to find one particular class of dangerous vehicles, then it would be ones without an MoT certificate.

"If these have critical safety defects, such as brakes or steering, then they are a danger to other road users and the drivers."

The operation took place throughout the town between Monday and Wednesday, following calls to police and the DVLA hotline.

Owners of impounded, or clamped vehicles had one day to pay £200 to get them released, or an increase in the fine to £280.

If they tax their vehicles within 14 days, they will receive £120 back from the DVLA.

However, if they do not pay their fines within a certain period, the DVLA will crush vehicles.

PCSO Keates added: "Tax cheats beware. You will pay the price - a point to which, on this occasion, 96 motorists will attest."

Anyone with concerns about untaxed vehicles can call the DVLA hotline on 0800 325 202.