A 'SIGNIFICANT' proportion of drivers are running the amber and red traffic lights at the Douglas road lifting bridge, the Department of Infrastructure (DoI) has said.

This has led to some drivers crashing into the barriers which lower after the traffic signals turn to red.

Director of Highways Richard Pearson said: "Traffic signals at this location and all other locations are there in order to manage traffic and protect people from harm.

"Ignoring them is an offence - however the consequences of ignoring signals also include serious injury or death."

Police Inspector Terry Stephen said: "We are working in partnership with the DoI and if this dangerous and anti-social practice continues we will have no alternative other than to prosecute offenders."

The department has CCTV cameras in operation at the bridge which can be used to help support prosecutions.