TWELVE lorry drivers were fined more than £4,000 for using weak bridges and unsuitable roads across Oxfordshire thanks to vigilance of concerned residents.

The violations by HGV vehicles were reported by residents at Newbridge, Shabbington, Launton, Little Milton and Chalgrove before the drivers were prosecuted.

One driver, Darron Francis aged 50 from Duns Tew, drove a 26-tonne HGV over Enstone, which has a restriction of just 7.5 tonne, and was ordered to pay £480.

Another, 61-year old Oldrich Winkler from Reading, drove a 32-tonne HGV over Little Milton and Chalgrove, carrying 7.5 tonne restrictions, and was also ordered to pay £480.

Deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council Rodney Rose said: “This is all about handing the power back to local people to help improve their area.

“With Oxfordshire residents acting as Trading Standards’ eyes and ears, we hope to drive down the number of people who flout weight restrictions in local villages."

Trading standards operations manager Jody Kerman said: “Resident’s reports are invaluable for our Trading Standards officers who carry out routine inspections around the county.

“Weight restrictions are put in place for very good reasons and it is clear from the level of local community support that heavy goods vehicles that break these restrictions cause a huge level of disruption and potential dangers.

“Weight restrictions often allow for deliveries and collections to be made directly within the restriction, but do not allow them to be used as through routes and shortcuts.

“In these cases, there are always other more suitable routes available.”