OWNERS of motor salvage yards in County Durham are being warned they face large fines unless they comply with legislation designed to combat car ringing and the trade in stolen vehicle parts.

Under regulations recently introduced by the Government, anyone involved in the business of recovery and salvage of vehicles must register with the local authority.

To date, only 30 individuals in County Durham have registered, and Durham Constabulary is warning the dozens of unregistered traders that a force-wide enforcement campaign is being planned.

"There are many opportunities for the unscrupulous to dispose of stolen vehicles," said Chief Inspector Paul Goundry, head of Durham's road policing unit.

"Some are broken up and the parts sold on, others are broken down to provide parts to repair a damaged vehicle. Some might be used to provide a false identity for stolen vehicles - a practice known as ringing.

"The motor salvage industry has worked hard to rid itself of criminals who taint its image, but less scrupulous dealers continue to undermine their efforts."

Registration fees vary between councils, but are between £40 and £70 for a three-year period.

The Government estimates that registration will reduce the number of vehicles stolen every year by more than 30,000.

Chief Insp Goundry said: "Local authorities must keep a list of all those who apply, and individual businesses that do register will be subject to police checks.

"Those who have not yet registered should do so now, as a campaign of enforcement is planned for later in the year.

"Those who fail to register could then face fines of up to £5,000. Traders must maintain proper records of any vehicles or parts handled. If they don't, they would also be guilty of an offence and risk financial penalties. The new law is designed to make it harder for criminals to dispose of vehicles and will also increase the risk of detection."