GWENT Police are advising people in the Pontypool and Cwmbran areas to be vigilant and check their Mot certificates after a man in the area was arrested on suspicion of fraudulently producing MOT certificates.

Five people have recently been stopped by police, and when their documents have been checked they have been unaware that they are driving without a valid MOT certificate.

The 53-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of theft of two vehicles and for driving without a valid licence, insurance or MOT. He has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Police believe there may be more people in the area in the same position. If you have recently had your car MOT'd by a "friend of a friend" in the Cwmbran/ Pontypool area, you can check the validity of your certificate by visiting the gov.uk website.

Gwent Police advise motorists to choose a trusted and reputable garage/ mechanic to complete any MOT or service and repair work. And they want to remind drivers that the fine for driving without a MOT is a £100 non endorsable fixed penalty.

Anyone with concerns, or information relating to this is asked to call 101 quoting log 369 22/08/14.