A CLAMPDOWN on abandoned and untaxed cars in South Tyneside has netted more than 300 vehicles.

Since January, more than 164 vehicles have been clamped and 154 have been removed to a safe compound. Ten people have immediately paid the release fee.

Motorists who leave their vehicles untaxed could face a fine of up to £1,000 in addition to paying for their road tax.

Any vehicle which has been untaxed and clamped but is not claimed within one week may be legally destroyed.

However, if the vehicle is worth more than £1,000 it may be sold at auction.

The action was taken after complaints from the public about vehicles which were untaxed and abandoned.