POLICE targeted abandoned and untaxed vehicles during a major swoop on two Andover estates.

Headed by Insp Andy Jennings with Sgt Dave Wright leading Operation Clean Sweep on the ground, a team of Andover police and traffic officers swept through King Arthur's and Roman Way estates on Saturday.

Pc Ted Reynolds, who was responsible on the day for checking cars on the police national computer, said: "The aim of the operation was to identify abandoned and untaxed vehicles on public roads and local authority land, mainly car parks."

Motorists were required to produce their documents while damage, graffiti and litter were also identified and notified to Test Valley Borough Council. "The operation was carried out with a view to improving the quality of life for local residents," said Pc Reynolds.

Insp Jennings said: "In our view the operation was a success and was the first in what is hoped will be a series of similar initiatives in the Andover area."

In all there were 72 vehicle checks and five person checks. A total of 18 abandoned vehicles were identified and 40 were found to be untaxed.

Pc Reynolds said that three searches were carried out, one person was arrested for document offences.

And three people were reported for summons for document offences.