TWO new cars are being provided to Avon and Somerset Police’s Proactive Roads Policing Team this month by MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau), the entity responsible for tackling uninsured driving across the UK.

A group of 20 Special Constables attached to the Proactive Roads Policing Team are authorised to drive marked vehicles, and have the ability to stop and seize vehicles found to be uninsured or inadequately insured. However, they can often find it challenging to access appropriate police cars as demand is high.

To support these volunteer police officers, MIB has funded two dual-branded Toyota Corollas.

Both cars have in-built ANPR, which highlights suspected uninsured vehicles to the officers inside, allowing them to stop and scrutinise the insurance status further. Vehicles of interest are identified by comparing ANPR data with Navigate, the central record of all live motor insurance policy data, held by MIB.

The first Toyota was presented on Thursday, May 15, at the Portishead force headquarters during a key handover ceremony, whilst the second car will be arriving with the force in the coming weeks.

Clare Moody, Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, attended the key handover ceremony and said: “I am delighted to see this continued partnership between Avon and Somerset Police and the Motor Insurers' Bureau.

“The addition of these dual-branded vehicles will play a crucial role in helping our Special Constables to tackle uninsured driving, making our roads safer for everyone.

“We know that uninsured drivers often contribute to wider criminality and road offences, so this initiative is not just about enforcing the law but about protecting our communities and preventing further harm.

“I look forward to seeing the positive impact these vehicles will have in reducing uninsured driving and supporting wider public safety efforts.”