A SUSSEX police initiative that informs employers when fleet drivers commit traffic offences committed by their company drivers is gaining widespread interest from other forces.

Since October 1 last year Sussex Police has been carrying out a pilot scheme known as COSTS - Commercial Operators Safer Transport Scheme - aimed at encouraging fleet operators to take greater responsibility for the management of drivers and vehicles on the road. Since its launch, 753 letters have been sent by the police.

The Association of Chief Police Officers has been monitoring the scheme and now other police forces have been in touch with COSTS' instigator Inspector Steve Long, of Sussex Police's traffic division.