COUNCIL officials are calling on drivers of diesel vehicles to ensure they don't create a safety hazard by overfilling their tanks.

Diesel spillages pose a particular danger to motorcyclists and can also seriously affect the environment.

Hartlepool and Stockton councils have joined forces to run the KillSpills campaign, aimed at raising awareness of the problem.

Both local authorities have issued reminders to their own drivers by sticking warning notices saying "diesel spills kill make sure you don't overfill" on fuel tanks and filler caps of all vehicles in their fleets.

Bus companies, hauliers and other transport companies will be encouraged to join the campaign.

Paul Watson, Hartlepool Borough Council's road safety officer, said: "Diesel spills are a huge problem for motorcyclists, particularly at junctions and roundabouts.

"By ensuring that our council vehicle fleets don't contribute to this problem, we are setting an example that, hopefully, other organisations will follow."

The campaign also aims to address environmental concerns.

Mr Watson said: "When diesel spills onto a road it can run off and travel through the drainage system into streams and rivers.

"Diesel is toxic, and not only can it pollute our drinking water, but it can also kill fish, birds, water creatures such as otters and water voles, insects and plants."

Diesel spillages on a public highway in Hartlepool can be reported by calling 01429-523333. The number to call in the Stockton area is 01642-391959.