CARELESS drivers travelling on the A4103 Hereford to Worcester road will be targeted by police throughout next month.

Police will be using marked and unmarked vehicles to target inconsiderate drivers and speeders.

They say speed has been the main cause of an increase in crashes along this stretch of road over the past year.

Between the beginning of November 2001 and the end of October 2002, on the A4103 there was one fatality, seven serious injuries and 233 minor injuries.

During the beginning of November 2000 and the end of October 2001, there was one fatality, five serious injuries and 28 minor injuries.

"As we head towards Christmas we expect worsening weather, which requires road users to drive more carefully and according to the weather conditions," said PC Paul Hobday, from West Mercia Constabulary's road traffic unit.

"Driving inappropriately or carelessly could get you a minimum of a fixed penalty fine of £60 plus three penalty points on your driving licence.

"For the more severe cases, a summons is issued and the court will decide."