DRIVERS in Rossendale face an on-the-spot fine if they use their front fog lights in clear weather.

The tough measures are part of a police clampdown on motorists abusing the Highway Code.

After complaints from dazzled drivers, officers will issue fixed penalty tickets to drivers who fail to use their fog lights appropriately or leave blinding beams on in clear weather.

Their main concern is big spotlights added to cars which are left on regardless of weather conditions, but those who use normal fog lights in clear conditions also risk a fine.

As part of the new campaign, police will also be advising drivers who have small coloured red or blue lights in their front windscreens.

Officers say red lights are dangerous as from a distance they look like brake lights or rear tail lights, while blue or green lights could appear to be emergency service vehicles from a distance. Offences will be dealt with by way of a non-endorsable fixed penalty notice of £30 fine, while other motorists will receive advice as appropriate.

The officer leading the campaign, PC Trevor Syrett, said: "There have been numerous letters in the papers about the inappropriate use of fog lights and the complainants are raising genuine concerns. The use of front fog lights in good weather conditions is hazardous, dazzling on-coming drivers.

"Inappropriate use of the lamps is illegal. That's why, where appropriate, we will issue fixed penalty tickets.

"Faced with a number of complaints and a potential hazard for road users, we are left with little choice. These people are breaking the law so we must be seen to take action."

Warning posters will be placed in key locations.