Members of the northwest neighbourhood policing team (NPT), stopped 90 drivers in an operation with the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA), Trading Standards and HM Revenue and Customs.

Officers found 23 to be driving illegally, with five motorists driving
without insurance, and three without valid MOTs.

Three vehicles, which had dangerously worn tyres, were deemed completely unroadworthy, and had to be taken off the road immediately.

Several other vehicles had defects requiring attention, but drivers
were given time to get them fixed.

One motorist found to be using red diesel had their vehicle seized
by Customs officers.

Drivers found using the fuel, which is dyed and carries a much lower tax levy, can also be hit with heavy fines.

Insp Sally Fryer, of the northwest NPT, said she was surprised to see
so many offences being committed.

She said: "All in all this was a very positive day and a successful
operation - but it is a lot of offences.

"I would urge drivers to check their vehicles regularly for road defects, as a lot of people don't take enough time to check. It can be
difficult if they have a lot of other commitments.

"But it is important to do so as defects can cause great danger and
can lead to heavy punishments."

Last month the NPT found 24 drivers speeding during another action day on the same street.

And in February, spot checks exposed rogue traders and bogus charity collectors.