MOTORISTS caught disregarding Darwen's new road layout will be fined and could even face points on their licence, police have warned.

The warning comes after 20 £30 fixed-penalty notices were issued to motorists in one week.

Police officers monitored the traffic through Darwen town centre following a number of complaints about vehicles ignoring restricted access and no-entry signs.

Over the course of the week, officers found motorists were driving along Duckworth Street, Market Street then The Circus as a through road to Bolton from Blackburn.

They have also had reports that some motorists have been using the same route to travel towards Blackburn.

Motorists should be driving around the town centre along Bury Street and Green Street.

The new road layout was part of Blackburn with Darwen Council's £1.4m road improvements to help regenerate the town.

Sergeant Jim Wood, of Darwen Police said: "As a result of complaints on the new road layout, officers have been monitoring and issuing warnings.

"Despite these warnings motorists have continued to disregard the no-entry regulations.

"As a result, an operation is in effect. During one week, 20 motorists were issued with fixed penalty notices for contravening the restricted access and no-entry signs, the police will continue with this operation.

"We would urge motorists to adhere to the restrictions placed on all roads, which are there for the safety for all road users.

"Persons found breaching the regulations can expect to receive a fixed-penalty notice, which could include points on their licence or a court summons."