Motorists using unroadworthy cars have been targeted in a government-led crackdown.

Officers from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency visited Arlesey on Thursday to check vehicles.

The routine searches by the government agency resulted in nine vehicles being clamped, five of which were released after their owners paid fines. The remainder were impounded.

A DVLA spokesman said: “The DVLA operates a comprehensive package of measures to ensure that vehicle tax is convenient to pay but very hard to avoid.

“Those who fail to tax their vehicles are subject to enforcement measures ranging from automated penalties from the vehicle record, through to direct enforcement action such as the wheelclamping, impounding and ultimately, disposal of the untaxed vehicle.”

Before any enforcement action is taken the DVLA try to encourage people to comply with the law.

A last chance reminder letter is issued to people who have not re-licensed their vehicle or made a Statutory off Road Notification declaration immediately on expiry of the previous license or SORN.

The letters are issued approximately 15 days after the last license expiry, to advise the owner that records show a license has expired and further action is required.