TRAFFIC police were monitoring drivers in Kendal on Friday morning to make sure motorists are prepared for winter.

Officers patrolling Milnthorpe Road found five vehicles with tyre treads below the legal limit of 1.6mm, resulting in traffic offence reports for the drivers.

Other offences detected during the operation included:

- One driver drawing a trailer in excess of the weight permitted on his driving licence – traffic offence report issued for driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

- One driver driving a vehicle without insurance – vehicle seized and traffic offence report issued.

- One driver reported for displaying a registration mark not confirming to regulations – another traffic offence report and reported to DVLA.

- One driver warned for an expired MOT.

The legal minimum tread depth for cars in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tyre around its entire circumference.

Driving on tyres which are below this limit is not only dangerous but illegal and you could face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each tyre.

PC Simon Smith, of the Kendal Mobile Support Group said: “Checking that your tyre thread is correct can save lives. If you are unsure, please see a specialist who will be able to make sure that you have the correct tyre conditioning, pressure and tread depth.

“Deteriorating light and weather can lead to challenging conditions especially on narrow rural roads. We ask that all motorists take into account these challenges when driving as too many road collisions are caused by those in control of a vehicle failing to adapt.

“It is essential that your vehicle is in good working condition, if it’s not it can lead to fatal consequences.”