WORK to increase road safety for road offences has been welcomed by the region's police and crime commissioner.

John Campion, Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia, is pleased with the headway that has been made both locally and nationally with an increase in penalties for mobile phone use, more government funding around drug driving enforcement and new legislation allowing learner drivers to gain experience on the motorways before passing their test.

He said: "Too many people are dying or seriously injured on our roads, and it is excellent news that the government are making this a priority.

"The national investment in resources for policing and the significant progress so far is great news for our communities, particularly those in rural areas where the risks can be higher."

There were 1,944 collisions on West Mercia’s roads in 2017/18 - an 11 per cent reduction on last year's figures - but 477 resulting in deaths or serious injuries; two per cent increase on the previous year.

The Government has announcement, a further £100m to improve some of the most dangerous stretches of A roads, including an investment of nearly £4m in Shropshire.

There will also be a further investment in resources for the police including breathalyser kits as well as a greater focus on more in depth analysis around road safety, and further work focusing on rural road users and other priority groups.

Mr Campion added: "I am also reassured by the progress of West Mercia Police locally, with extensive work around enforcement, and awareness to target and change driver attitude.

"Road safety continues to be a high priority for me, and I will continue to ensure everyone is working together to keep road users safe.”