Spot checks on lorries using one of Hampshire's busiest routes have revealed revealed that many were being driven with dangerous defects.

In fact, out of 23 goods vehicles stopped, only six were without defects.

Three vehicles were immediately prohibited from continuing their journey - one had loose wheel nuts and two had other dangerous parts.

Another five were given delayed prohibitions - four for minor brake defects and one for a defective exhaust.

Delayed prohibition allows the vehicle to continue its journey but must have the defect repaired when it gets to its destination.

The driver of one Irish Republic vehicle was prohibited from taking the wheel again for 24 hours because he had not taken correct rest periods during the week.

The remaining eight vehicles were issued with advisory notices for minor defects, allowing repairs to be conducted when vehicles were next serviced.

Winchester traffic officers joined forces with the Vehicle Inspectorate for the checks on goods vehicles using the A34 at Sutton Scotney.

Sergeant Kory Thorne, casualty reduction manager, said: "It is disappointing to continually see that many goods vehicles are being used with defects, some of which are potentially lethal.

"Operators must take greater responsibility for the maintenance of these vehicles ensuring they are safe to be used."This operation reinforces our commitment to making the roads in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight safer for everyone to use."