POLICE are launching a fresh clampdown on drivers using mobile phones - as the penalty doubles to £60.

All Strathclyde officers have been briefed to watch out for drivers flouting the legislation from next Tuesday, when the on-the-spot fine goes up.

Research suggests using a mobile can be more dangerous than drink driving - even with a hands-free set.

The law has been in force since December 2003, and more than 9000 drivers have been caught in Strathclyde so far.

However, thousands still flout the rules every day - and that's just in the West of Scotland.

This month the Evening Times named and shamed dozens of drivers spotted breaking the law in Glasgow.

We published pictures of motorists and their number plates, revealing the shocking scale of the problem.

And from next week, as well as the higher fine, drivers will automatically get three penalty points on their licence.

These penalties can be further increased with cases deemed serious enough to be taken to court.

Chief Inspector Jim McLaughlin, head of road policing for Glasgow, said there would be more chance than ever of getting caught.

He said: "The message to anyone using a hand-held mobile while driving is simple - you will be caught and charged.

"The new legislation has been put in place to save people's lives and my officers will enforce it rigorously.

"My advice to motorists is if they have to make a call, pull over when it is safe to do so and make the call.

"If you have to speak while driving, ensure you have a hands-free kit that will not distract you from the road."