A road safety trial in the West Midlands has identified over 19,000 potential driving offences in just two weeks using new artificial intelligence (AI) cameras.

The images of potential driving offences include drivers using their mobile phone and passengers failing to wear seatbelts.

Among the images captured is a front-seat passenger with a small child on their lap with no seatbelt, leaving the toddler completely unprotected in the event of a collision. It is one of dozens of images of children being driven without age-appropriate restraints.

In another case a driver was captured holding their mobile phone with both hands, eyes on the screen rather than the road.

The RAC reports that during the two-week trial, funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority, was conducted in March using advanced AI camera systems positioned outside the Ladywood and Fallings Park fire stations in Birmingham and Wolverhampton.

Initial scans of the images identified 11,144 potential seatbelt offences and 1,163 potential mobile phone offences at the Ladywood site.

At Fallings Park, the cameras detected a further 6,081 potential seatbelt offences and 757 potential instances of drivers using a mobile phone while behind the wheel.

Mat MacDonald, West Midlands Road Safety Commissioner said: “Mobile phone use at the wheel and failing to wear a seatbelt are two of the leading causes of death and serious injury on our road network, and yet you barely have to leave your front door before you see someone taking these potentially lethal risks.

“Our work with this cutting-edge technology shows we will stop at nothing to stamp out such behaviours, fostering a safer culture of driving on our streets and preventing yet more families going through the anguish of losing a loved one to avoidable tragedy.”

The AI camera technology was developed and supplied by AECOM/Acusensus, with its accuracy checked by human operators using a sample of 8,024 images.

As the temperatures begin to plunge and winter takes hold of the nation, drivers will begin to defrost their cars in the morning. The mundane yet familiar task causes Brits to lose valuable minutes that could have been spent sleeping or commuting. But your mornings could be about to get easier as the AA has shared a handy winter driving tip, revealing the “best way to defrost a car windscreen fast” before setting off.

Separated into five simple steps, the key piece of winter driver advice tells motorists how to de-ice your car quickly and safely on a cold morning.+

Check your wipers
First, motorists should check their wipers and ensure they are not on before you switch the car on. “If the wipers are frozen to the glass, the wiper motor could be damaged or the rubber could tear off if they start wiping,” says the AA.

Start the engine
The AA advises motorists to start their engine and switch the warm air blower to the windscreen to help clear frost and ice. Drivers with rear window heaters and heated mirrors should also turn these on to speed up the process.

The motoring organisation also recommends switching on the air conditioning, as this helps remove moisture from the air and prevents the windows from misting up and before you know it, that frozen windscreen will start to clear up.

During this time, you can clear the ice or snow from the outside of the car.

Drivers are warned against using their hands to wipe condensation from windows, as this can leave greasy marks. You should also remain with your vehicle at all times while the engine is running.

Sweep off the snow
Next, sweep snow off the car and ensure the lights are clean and working. The AA recommends using a soft brush for clearing the front grille.

Scrape while you wait
Use a scraper and de-icer on the outside of your car while you wait for the inside to warm up.

Get the all-clear
You should be all set to hit the road! Motorists are reminded to wait until all the ice and mist has gone before you drive off.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safer and more comfortable driving experience on frosty mornings. Remember, safety is always the top priority when it comes to motoring.

A new Private Parking Code of Practice has been introduced by the Government as it looks to give motorists greater protection from unfair private parking charges. Under the new rules, drivers will get five minutes to decide whether to park and 10 minutes to leave a car park after their parking session has ended.

Unfair charges will also be cancelled on appeal where motorists have made genuine mistakes or faced circumstances outside their control, such as a breakdown, medical emergency or faulty payment machine.

A maximum charge of £20, on appeal, will apply to minor errors, including entering the wrong registration number or forgetting to display a permit.

The RAC is reporting that this is a step in the right direction to protect drivers from the poor practices of some private parking companies but not the leap we’ve been campaigning for so long.

We’ve long called for the banning of debt recovery fees being added on top of parking charge notices (PCNs) and a single independent appeals body to replace the two industry-run ones, but neither have been included which is disappointing.

That said, the fact we finally have a code seven years on from the Private Parking Code of Practice Act becoming law is positive. Car park management companies will now have to conform to a new set of rules or risk losing access to the DVLA’s database which they depend on to issue PCNs to drivers.

This will hopefully prevent many drivers wrongly being issued tickets in the first place. There’s also a strong indication the code will be toughened as soon as next year to take in recent recommendations from the Competition and Markets Authority.

What the Private Parking Code of Practice means for drivers

>>> 5 minutes to decide whether to park
>>> 10 minutes to leave a car park without facing a penalty
>>> No more unfair charges for issues drivers can’t control, such as a breakdown
>>> £20 cap on charges for minor errors, such as entering the wrong registration number on a parking machine

Despite the new rules, the maximum private parking charge will remain at £100, ignoring calls from consumer groups for it to be reduced.

That means the changes offer some much-needed safeguards, but drivers can still face a sizeable bill for a parking mistake.

For motorists frustrated by the scale and cost of private parking charges, the new rules represent progress rather than a complete solution.

Restoring the alloy wheels is one of the simplest and most convincing ways to transform the look and value of your car without spending a fortune. Over time, even careful drivers end up with kerb marks, scratches, corrosion and fading paint on their alloys. While it may be tempting to ignore this damage, investing in alloy wheel repair or full alloy wheel restoration offers clear benefits. Refurbishing alloy wheels can greatly improve the overall appearance of your vehicle, make it look better cared for, and even increase its resale value. Clean, fresh-looking alloys instantly lift the look of the entire car, giving it a sharper, more modern finish. In addition, restoring the alloy wheels is usually far cheaper than replacing them with brand new rims, making it a cost-effective upgrade that delivers a strong visual impact and a solid return for both your time and money.

Common Types of Alloy Wheel Damage and How to Spot Them Early

Alloy wheels are constantly exposed to the elements, road debris and driving mistakes, so damage is almost inevitable. One of the most common issues is kerb rash (or curb rash), where the wheel edge is scraped along a pavement, leaving scratched alloy wheels and scuffed alloys with rough, bare metal showing. Corroded alloy wheels are another frequent problem, especially in the UK where wet weather and winter road salt encourage oxidation; this can show up as bubbling paint, white powdery patches or discolouration around the spokes and bolt holes. Bent alloy wheels and cracked wheel rims usually result from potholes or heavy impacts and can affect how the car drives, potentially causing vibrations, air leaks or even safety concerns. Brake dust damage from hot, metallic particles that are left uncleaned can stain and pit the surface, while oxidised alloy wheels lose their shine and start to look dull and tired. Identifying wheel damage early is vital: look closely at the rim edges, inner barrels and around the valve for chips, hairline cracks, flaking clear coat or uneven surfaces. Catching these signs sooner rather than later makes repairs easier, cheaper and more effective.

DIY vs Professional: Which Alloy Wheel Restoration Option Is Right for You?

When it comes to DIY alloy wheel repair versus professional alloy wheel refurbishment, there is no one-size-fits-all answer; the right choice depends on your budget, skill level and expectations. DIY alloy wheel repair kits available in the UK can be useful for light kerb rash, small chips and minor scuffs. They usually include fillers, sandpaper, alloy wheel paint and sometimes a clear coat, making them a relatively low-cost option. However, they do require patience, attention to detail and somewhere clean and dry to work. Professional alloy wheel refurbishment, on the other hand, is carried out by trained technicians using specialised tools and paint systems, often resulting in a finish that looks close to factory fresh. Mobile alloy wheel repair services can come to your home or workplace for convenience, while traditional body shops and dedicated alloy repair centres may offer more extensive services, including straightening and welding. The cost of restoring the alloy wheels professionally is higher than a basic DIY attempt, but the quality, durability and consistency of the finish is usually far superior. When weighing time vs cost, consider the pros and cons: DIY is cheaper but can be time-consuming and may give mixed results, whereas UK alloy wheel repair services typically offer warranties, colour matching and the peace of mind that the job has been done correctly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Restoring the Alloy Wheels at Home

If you decide to restore the alloy wheels yourself, following a clear process will make a big difference to the final result. Start by thoroughly cleaning the wheels with a dedicated wheel cleaner to remove brake dust, road grime and old wax. Once dry, carefully inspect the surfaces and mark any deep scratches or damaged areas that need more attention. Sanding alloy wheels is the next key step: begin with a coarser grit to level out rough edges and then move to finer grades to smooth the surface. For gouges and deeper marks, filling deep scratches with an appropriate metal or body filler will help create an even profile; allow the filler to cure fully before sanding it flush. After this, apply an alloy wheel primer designed for metals, as this helps the paint adhere properly and reduces the risk of future flaking. When the primer has dried, you can move on to alloy wheel paint, applying several light coats rather than one heavy one to avoid runs. Finally, protect your new finish with a clear coat for alloys, which adds gloss and shields the colour from the elements. Essential tools for alloy wheel repair at home include sandpaper in various grits, masking tape, filler, primer, paint, clear coat and a good home alloy refurb kit. Preparing wheels for painting by masking off tyres, valves and brake components and working in a dust-free environment is crucial if you want a smooth, professional-looking finish.

Choosing the Right Paint, Finish and Colour for Restored Alloy Wheels

Selecting the correct paint, finish and colour is just as important as the repair work itself, as it determines how well the wheels suit your car and how long they stay looking smart. Many owners prefer to stick with alloy wheel paint colours that match their original OEM alloy colours, especially on newer or high-value vehicles, to maintain a factory-correct appearance. Popular choices include classic silver alloy paint and gloss black alloys, both of which give a clean, modern look that suits a wide range of cars. For something more distinctive, you might choose a diamond-cut look or a matte finish, which can add a sportier, more aggressive edge. There are numerous UK alloy wheel paint brands that offer dedicated wheel paints formulated to cope with heat, brake dust and road grime. Matching the factory finish can often be done using colour codes or by working with a professional who can visually match the shade. Those wanting a more personal touch may opt for custom alloy wheel colours, from subtle anthracite greys to bold reds, bronzes or even two-tone designs. Whatever you choose, make sure the finish complements the style and colour of your vehicle and consider how easy it will be to keep clean.

Professional Techniques: Diamond-Cut, Powder Coating and Full Refurbishment

For the best, longest-lasting results, professional alloy specialists offer advanced techniques that go well beyond what is achievable at home. Diamond cut alloy wheels, for example, are produced by mounting the wheel on a CNC lathe cutting machine, which precisely skims a thin layer off the face of the wheel to reveal bright, bare metal with extremely fine lines. This is often combined with painted inserts, giving a striking, high-end appearance similar to many factory performance wheels. Powder coated alloys are another premium option: the wheel is first stripped, typically through acid stripping wheels or other methods, and then coated with a dry powder that is baked on, creating a tough, even finish that resists chips, chemicals and corrosion better than most aerosols. A full factory-style refurbishment usually includes straightening, welding if needed, stripping, repairing, repainting or powder coating, and finally applying durable clear coats or other protective layers. These high-end alloy wheel restoration techniques result in premium finishes and long-lasting wheel coatings that not only look superb but also stand up well to everyday UK driving conditions, including winter weather and salted roads.

How Much Does Restoring the Alloy Wheels Cost in the UK?

The cost of restoring the alloy wheels in the UK can vary widely depending on the size of the wheels, the extent of the damage, the finish you choose and whether you opt for mobile or workshop-based services. On average, alloy wheel refurbishment cost in the UK is usually priced per wheel, with simple cosmetic repairs typically at the lower end and diamond cutting or full powder coating at the higher end. For a basic tidy-up, you may pay a modest price per wheel, while a full set refurbishment cost for all four wheels with premium finishes will naturally be higher but often still far less than replacing the alloys entirely. Mobile repair pricing is often competitive, with the added benefit of convenience, though some complex finishes or severely damaged wheels may still need to be taken to a dedicated facility. London alloy wheel prices can be slightly higher than in other parts of the country due to higher overheads, but you will also find a wide choice of budget vs premium services to suit different needs. When you compare the cost of DIY vs professional, remember to factor in the price of tools, paints and your own time. In many cases, professional refurbishment offers better value in the long run thanks to a more durable finish and a stronger improvement to the car’s resale appeal.

Preventing Future Damage: How to Keep Your Restored Alloy Wheels Looking New

Once you have invested in alloy wheel restoration, it makes sense to protect your wheels so they stay looking new for as long as possible. Applying a dedicated alloy wheel protection product, such as a wheel sealant or ceramic coating for alloy wheels, creates a barrier that helps repel brake dust, road grime and salt. This makes cleaning easier and reduces the risk of staining or corrosion. To avoid kerb damage, take a little extra care when parking, use mirrors and sensors where available, and consider fitting rim protectors for an added buffer between the wheel and the kerb. Always choose safe wheel cleaning products that are non-acidic and suitable for coated alloys, as harsh chemicals can strip clear coats and damage the finish. Regular wheel maintenance, including frequent rinsing and gentle washing, is particularly important during winter when road salt protection is crucial to prevent corrosion. Tyre care and wheel longevity are also linked: correctly inflated tyres and good-quality rubber help absorb impacts, reducing the risk of bent rims and structural damage. With a little routine attention, your restored alloys can keep their fresh, sharp appearance for years rather than months.

When Restoring the Alloy Wheels Isn’t Enough: Knowing When to Replace

Although refurbishment can solve most cosmetic issues, there are times when restoring the alloy wheels simply isn’t enough and replacement becomes the safer choice. Unsafe alloy wheel damage includes deep, structural wheel cracks, severely bent rims that cannot be straightened within safe limits, or previous poor-quality welds that undermine the strength of the wheel. Such issues may lead to MOT failure wheels in the UK, as testers must ensure that wheels are structurally sound and safe for road use. Knowing when to replace alloys rather than repair them is vital: if a wheel cannot hold air properly, shows cracks radiating from the spokes or bolt holes, or causes persistent vibrations, it may be time for bent rim replacement instead of another cosmetic fix. Insurance and wheel damage can also play a role; in some cases, your insurer may insist on replacement for safety reasons after an accident. Always place safety vs cosmetic repair at the top of your priorities—no aesthetic improvement is worth compromising the integrity of your wheels.

CWhy Restoring the Alloy Wheels Is One of the Smartest Upgrades You Can Make

Restoring the alloy wheels is one of the smartest, most cost-effective upgrades you can make to your car. The benefits of restoring the alloy wheels are clear: you enhance resale value by presenting a car that looks well cared for, you create a better first impression for buyers, friends and colleagues, and you enjoy the satisfaction of driving a vehicle that looks sharper and more refined. Compared with many other car modifications, alloy wheel refurbishment is an affordable car upgrade that can dramatically improve appearance without major mechanical work. Fresh, damage-free alloys can also boost your confidence and driving pride every time you see your car on the driveway.

Whether you choose to tackle minor repairs at home or book alloy wheel refurbishment with a trusted professional, taking action now prevents further deterioration and keeps your vehicle looking its best. To get the most from your investment, choose a UK alloy specialist with a strong reputation, discuss your preferred finishes and colours, and start your alloy wheel restoration knowing that you are making a practical, value-adding improvement to your car.

Petrol stations aren’t using the Iran war to inflate prices, but they’re slow to implement and communicate any cost changes to consumers. Analysis from the UK’s chief regulator has raised concerns that fuel sector practices continue to reduce competition, which in turn keeps prices high for consumers.

Commissioned by the Government in light of the conflict in the Middle East, the Competition and Markets Authority’s June report says the watchdog has yet to uncover any evidence of price gouging by the fuel retail sector. Since the war began, both the Government and campaigners have been suspicious of petrol station pricing practices, which the industry has strongly criticised; in March, the Petrol Retailers Association said “inflammatory language” has led to forecourt workers receiving abuse from members of the public.

Autoexpress magazine reports that the CMA’s latest publication follows reports in June and March, which also struggled to find evidence of price gouging in the sector. Chief executive, Sarah Cardell, said: “We know prices at the pump are putting real pressure on drivers’ pockets and our monitoring plays an important role in giving drivers confidence that retailers are not taking advantage of the conflict in the Middle East.

“We will continue to monitor prices and margins closely and expect any reductions in wholesale prices to be rapidly and fully passed on to drivers.”

What could be keeping prices high, however, is the sluggish response many retailers have in passing on wholesale fuel price decreases to consumers – a practice known as “passive pricing”.

The CMA says “some retailers did not immediately pass reductions in wholesale diesel prices on to drivers” and, with this in mind, will publish a more comprehensive review into practices in the autumn.

Head of policy at the RAC, Simon Williams, described the usage of passive pricing strategies as “concerning”, urging the CMA to “compare fuel retailing in Northern Ireland with the rest of the UK, because petrol and diesel are currently being sold there for an average of 8p less a litre – meaning the cost of filling a family car in Northern Ireland is around £4.40 less than elsewhere. If fuel can be sold there at lower prices, then it seems drivers elsewhere aren’t being treated fairly.”

Also part of the effort to increase competition between retailers is the Fuel Finder scheme, which allows consumers to view live pricing data. Yet while 97 per cent of forecourts are signed up, many sites are not keeping information up to date; July analysis by the Press Association suggested 1,750 of the UK’s more than 8,300 forecourts had not provided any price updates in over a week.

The CMA, on the other hand, says the “overwhelming majority” of retailers are complying with rules, but did point out that over 1,100 letters and 53 compliance notices had been issued following the end of the scheme’s grace period in April. “Most registration issues are resolved quickly once retailers are contacted,” the watchdog claims.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) Updates its Online Medical Service

Over 60,000 UK drivers have already used DVLA’s enhanced online medical service, which offers a faster and easier alternative to paper applications – saving people up to 10 days in comparison to paper applications.

Drivers can visit GOV.UK to check how around 1,600 medical conditions may affect their ability to drive and, where necessary, notify the DVLA.

Other key benefits of the DVLA online service include:

>>> Initial action on some applications can be taken within 24 hours
>>> The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week
>>> Drivers are guided through each stage of the application process
>>> Customers can track the progress of their application online
>>> Drivers with multiple medical conditions can now renew their licence online
>>> Medical licence holders can renew their photocard and licence in a single transaction

According to the DVLA, the online service continues to grow in popularity, with digital uptake increasing by almost 50% over the past year.

Further improvements planned for later this year will expand online medical notifications to additional services, including licence renewals at age 70, first-time provisional licence applications, and applications from drivers whose licence has previously been surrendered or revoked.

The DVLA has also encouraged drivers to check whether they need to report a medical condition on the portal.

Tim Moss CBE, DVLA Chief Executive, said: “More than 60,000 drivers have already switched to our online medical service, saving time, avoiding paperwork and benefiting from a faster application process.

“Customers can save up to ten days by applying online rather than by post. As well as making applications quicker and easier, drivers using the service have collectively avoided tens of thousands of pounds in postage costs. With 24/7 access and the ability to track progress online, we’re making it simpler than ever for people to manage their driving licence in a way that works for them.”

Fuel theft across the UK has surged in recent months, with petrol stations losing an estimated £194,000 worth of fuel every day as rising prices continue to put pressure on motorists.

According to data from Forecourt Eye, the number of drive-offs and unpaid fuel incidents has increased by around 20% since the conflict in the Middle East disrupted global oil supplies. As wholesale fuel costs climbed, prices at UK pumps followed, leading to a sharp rise in thefts.

Thousands of Incidents Every Day

Forecourt Eye analysed data from 550 petrol stations before and after the outbreak of the conflict, using the findings to estimate trends across the UK’s more than 8,000 forecourts.

The results suggest there are now nearly 2,900 fuel theft incidents every day, compared to around 2,400 before prices began to rise. These include motorists driving away without attempting to pay, as well as customers claiming they have no way of paying after filling up.

The amount of fuel being stolen has also increased significantly, rising from around 87,000 litres per day to almost 109,000 litres nationwide.

Retailers Feeling the Pressure

The financial impact on petrol station owners has been substantial. Forecourt Eye estimates the value of stolen fuel has jumped by almost 50% compared with the five months before the price increases.

Retailers are also reporting a rise in abusive behaviour, intimidation and even violence from frustrated customers.

Midlands Motor Fuels owner Shailesh Parekh, who operates six forecourts, says thefts are now happening almost daily. Despite extensive CCTV coverage, he believes the lack of consequences for offenders is encouraging repeat crime.

He estimates fuel theft cost his business around £40,000 last year and expects that figure to be even higher this year as fuel prices continue to fluctuate.

New Technology to Combat Fuel Crime

In response to the growing problem, Forecourt Eye has announced a partnership with facial recognition company Facewatch. From the autumn, more than 2,000 UK fuel retailers will be offered free access to technology designed to identify offenders and improve crime reporting.

The aim is to help petrol stations reduce repeat offences while providing police with better evidence to investigate fuel theft.

Are High Fuel Prices to Blame?

Fuel prices reached their highest level since 2022 earlier this month after peace talks in the Middle East collapsed, following a brief period of falling prices when negotiations appeared to ease tensions.

While some politicians have raised concerns about possible price gouging by retailers, the Competition and Markets Authority has said there is no widespread evidence that fuel stations have been unfairly increasing prices. However, it is continuing to investigate higher fuel margins at a small number of supermarket and independent retailers.

Retail industry groups argue that increased operating costs, including higher National Insurance contributions, packaging taxes and business rates, are also contributing to higher prices.

Looking Ahead

With fuel prices remaining unpredictable and the cost of living continuing to affect household budgets, petrol stations are facing increasing challenges from fuel theft and rising operating costs.

Many retailers are now calling for stronger enforcement, tougher penalties for offenders and wider adoption of technology to help reduce losses. Unless conditions improve, forecourt operators fear fuel theft will remain a growing problem across the UK.