We all know speed cameras are there to monitor the speed of motorists, but have you ever wondered what else they see?

A report by Chronicle Live suggests that speed cameras capture much more than road users driving beyond the speed limit.

Almost 700 motorists in the North East have been caught for offences other than speeding between August and November 2015 - including mobile phone use behind the wheel and illegal number plates.

However, the most common crime committed by 604 drivers was not wearing a seatbelt, according to statistics released by the Northumbria Road Safety Initiative.

New laws introduced in March will now see road users issued with six penalty points and a £200 fine if caught using a phone behind the wheel.

Motorists could also have their license revoked after racking up six points in their first two years of driving.

A road safety awareness group called Go Safe advises road users to swtich off mobile phones prior to making a journey and to always wear a seat belt.

A spokesman on behalf of Go Safe said: "Set your phone to voice mail or call divert, that way you will not miss a call.

"If you are on a long journey take regular breaks, get out and walk about and make your calls then."

In total 36 drivers in the regions were caught for 'other offences' such as not being in control of their vehicle or using illegal number plates for more than four months.

Instant bans means that new drivers would now need to re-take their practical and theory tests before being allowed back on the road.

Superintendent Sarah Pitt, head of operations at Northumbria Police, told Chronicle Live: "Camera detection is a great tool used to help police enforce all road laws and legislations.

"Many think speeding is the only thing detected however, driving without a seat belt, using mobile phones behind the wheel and more can all be identified and are all actions which make our roads a danger for motorists and pedestrians.

"We need to ensure we take positive action whenever possible to keep dangerous drivers off our roads.

"These laws are in place to protect people - and quite simply breaking them can cause serious injury or even death.

"We don't tolerate it and those in violation will face the consequences."