Speeding tractors are risking lives and damaging road signs and bollards in rural Dorset.

Police have been forced to target agricultural vehicles after complaints about drivers travelling too fast, using mobile phones at the wheel and driving in a careless and inconsiderate manner.

Sherborne Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team said officers are using mobile patrols and have joined forces with Community Speed Watch volunteers to tackle the problem.

Now they have warned drivers to take extra care.

“If you are a tractor driver or have drivers working for you, please drive considerately” said a spokesman. “We understand that this is a busy time for farmers and that there is obviously going to be an increase of activity on the roads, however, there is never an excuse for endangering yourselves or others.”