14 offences detected in Lochalsh and Skye road patrols by police

A DEDICATED patrol of the Kyle of Lochalsh and Isle of Skye areas by road police detected a spate of offences and allowed officers the chance to deliver a vital safety message.

Highland and Islands Road Policing officers carried out the patrols as part of Operation Cedar (Challenge, Educate, Detect and Reduce).

Police said afterwards they focused on areas where local residents and business owners have expressed concerns.

Officers stopped and checked 66 vehicles, where 14 offences were detected. These included a 23-year-old male driving in a careless manner and a 26-year-old male reported for driving a vehicle with no insurance or valid MOT certificate.

Other offences detected included no MOT and speeding.

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A further 19 drivers were spoken with and warned regarding their speed, construction and use requirements and documents.

A number of visitors to the area were also engaged with to remind them to be courteous to other road users.

Constable Mary Boyd of the Fort William road policing unit said: “These proactive patrols highlight our commitment to improving road safety across the Highland and Islands. These patrols aim to reassure communities that we are responding to their concerns whilst improving road safety and reducing collisions.

"This was also an excellent opportunity to engage with motorists who have travelled to the Highland and Islands to enjoy the stunning scenery it has to offer. We recognise that driving in Scotland is quite unique, and it's vital road users remember to drive on the left, especially after stopping for a break or refuelling. We also took the opportunity to remind motorists that when a build-up of traffic occurs behind them on the road, they should pull into a layby or passing place to allow vehicles to pass safely.”