YOUNGSTERS driving "status symbol" cars at high speeds and with little regard for road conditions and the safety of others will become the target for increased police attention in the run-up to Christmas.

Worried by an increase in accidents in recent weeks and in the knowledge that traditionally there is usually a surge in serious crashes at this time of the year, the police have signified their intention to stamp on speeders.

There is also a concern that the message not to drink-drive has lost its bite — in just three weeks in the Forest 15 drivers have tested positive.

"Some have been well over the limit and this is before the usual Christmas campaign has even begun.

"Our policing may not always be highly visible but these figures reveal that we are being very active. The message is that if you drink and drive you can expect to get stopped. We are very much on top of this," said Inspector David Smith.

A worried parent has contacted the Review concerned at rumours that racing in cars and on motor cycles was now prevalent locally.

"Please do what you can to try and make our youngsters see sense. They don't always see the danger and the threat they can be to other road users. It's always too late to be sorry after a crash," she said.

Inspector Smith said it was evident a number of local youngsters saw some fast cars as "a status symbol".

"We would remind them that cars and motor bikes should always be driven according to weather and road conditions. In the wrong hands they can often be dangerous weapons and all too often capable of killing someone," he said.