A VAN was seized and several more were issued with prohibition notices as part of action against scrap metal collectors.

Officers from Gateshead Council joined Northumbria Police and the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency to carry out Operation Itinerant.

It was launched following concerns raised by members of the public about the behaviour and practices of scrap metal collectors in Gateshead.

As part of the operation, a number of vehicles were stopped and checked for road worthiness and insurance, with the drivers also being checked to confirm that they had the necessary authorisations to collect and transport scrap metal.

One vehicle stopped was seized by police as it was not insured for the purpose it was being used.