RE your story about people who drive while using their mobile phones (Echo, Mar 28).

I spotted one of these idiots doing just that in a line of slow-moving vehicles. On pointing out the error of his ways all I got in reply was a two-fingered gesture and told to "go away" - literally.

Your report stated how many have been caught and punished, but I don't think the law goes far enough.

In my opinion, the police should have the power to immediately remove the driving licence of those caught and ban them for three years, plus issue an on-the-spot fine of £1,000.

Do away with all this time wasting in courts. Perhaps the message will then get home.

But I have to confess that after seeing your report it gave me a nice, warm glow inside to see that some have been punished. Who knows, the foul-mouthed yob I spoke to may have been one of them. I sincerely hope so.

D Harrison, Darlington.