MORE than 100 drivers have been caught red handed using their mobile phones behind the wheel.

Despite several crackdowns by police across Hampshire warning of the dangers caused by phones while driving, 141 drivers were stopped by officers.

Although it is half the number compared to the last week long campaign, Hampshire officers are disappointed that still so many are taking the risk behind the wheel.

Officers from the Hampshire and Thames Valley Joint Operation Unit undertook the operation across the two force areas targeting people who use their mobile phones while driving.

This took place between 6am on May 23, to just before midnight on the evening May 29.

A total of 80 per cent of those caught were men.

As well as imposing penalties on drivers who were caught, dedicated officers also used the campaign as an opportunity to educate motorists to the dangers of distraction driving.

Hampshire Constabulary Road Safety Sergeant Rob Heard said: “It seems many people still do not understand the dangers of using a mobile phone, other handheld devices or other distractions while driving. The number of drivers caught has halved compared to a similar operation in January. However this still isn't good enough.

"The majority of people know they should not be using a phone or device at the wheel, but don't seem to understand what a huge distraction it is.

"Distraction can be a major contribution in road accidents. By looking at your phone or tablet’s screen or using it you are four times more likely to be involved in a collision and your reaction times can be around 50 per cent slower.

"My advice is to turn off your phone and other devices while driving, put it out of reach, and out of view. This way you won't be tempted to look at it and become distracted. It's not worth the risk".