MORE than 1,200 people were stopped across Wales for not wearing a seatbelt during a recent two week campaign.

South Wales Police alone stopped 360 people for not wearing a seatbelt whilst travelling.

Not wearing a seatbelt is considered one of the ‘Fatal Five’ – the five offences that cause the most deaths on our roads. The others are speeding, alcohol, drugs and mobile phones.

Chief Inspector Martyn Stone, South Wales Police Specialist Operations, said: “Our focus is on educating drivers about the risks to themselves and others of not wearing a seatbelt and the potential harm that can be caused by passengers in the back of the car who are not strapped in.

“During this campaign eight children were found not to being wearing seatbelts, and this is eight too many.

"Wearing a seatbelt is the law and only takes seconds. This simple action can save lives.”

Both drivers and passengers can be fined £100 for not wearing a seatbelt and can be prosecuted. Any child under the age of 14 who is not buckled in is the responsibility of the driver and the driver can be fined.