Police caught a man driving past their Quedgeley headquarters while on his phone this afternoon during their 'No Mobile at the Wheel' campaign week.

The driver was issued a ticket for the offence which means he could face fines of £200 and six points on his licence.

The incident took place three days into the proactive Gloucestershire police operation to stop mobile phone usage at the wheel.

Police have been using long range cameras and roadside stops to catch Stroud drivers using mobile phones while driving between February 15 and 21.

Only 15 per cent of drivers follow Government advice on putting phones in the glove compartment of their vehicle to stop distractions, according to Gloucestershire Police.

A Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents survey found almost 35 per cent of drivers under the age of 25 admitted to checking texts, emails or social media accounts.

Commenting on the 'No Mobile at the Wheel' campaign, Superintendent Paul Keasey said: "Our presence and activity will clearly demonstrate our commitment to keeping people safe from harm on the county’s roads – that goes to the very heart of the Constabulary’s mission."

"I recognise that mobile phones are an important part of everyone’s lives and provide an important medium for people to stay in touch, especially during these exceptional times.

"However, it is vitally important that motorists use them safely and are not distracted by them whilst driving.”