Nine people were arrested and four vehicles seized during a two-day police operation targeting dangerous driving and vehicle crime across South Devon.

Officers carried out checks in Kingsbridge, Teignmouth, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham as part of a renewed crackdown on drink and drug driving, uninsured motorists and vehicle theft.

Five people were arrested and two vehicles seized on the first day of the operation.

In Teignmouth, a man was arrested on suspicion of drink driving and failing to provide a specimen.

Two men were arrested in Paignton for offences including drug driving, dangerous driving, driving without a licence or insurance and theft of a motor vehicle.

A man was arrested on suspicion of drink driving in Brixham and another in Torquay.

Police also dealt with three vehicles which failed to stop, a motorist allegedly driving without a licence, insurance or tax, and a person found in possession of Class A drugs.

A further four arrests were made on the second day.

In Kingsbridge, a man was arrested after allegedly failing to stop for police and subsequently failing to provide a breath specimen.

Another man was arrested in Brixham on suspicion of failing to stop and drink driving.

Police also identified another motorist allegedly driving without insurance.

Patrol Inspector Wes Watkins said road safety would remain a priority in the coming weeks.

He said: “We want to prevent risky behaviour and stop drivers who are not safe behind the wheel.

“Every single death or injury on our roads is one too many – that’s why operations like these are an essential part of our efforts to prevent incidents and keep our roads safe.”

He also urged motorists to take extra care as the clocks change this month and darker evenings and bad weather increase the risks on the roads.

Police said enquiries following the operation were continuing. Drivers have also been reported for offences and could face penalty points and fines where appropriate.