MOTOR salvage yards are being warned they face large fines unless they comply with new legislation aimed at halting car "ringing" and the trade in cannibalised vehicle parts.

Under regulations introduced across the country, anyone involved in the recovery and salvage of vehicles must now register with the council.

So far, only 30 individuals in County Durham have done so, and police are warning 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."

He added: "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 from council to council but are between £40 and £70 for three years. The Government estimates that registration will cut the number of vehicles stolen every year by more than 30,000.

Chief Insp Goundry said: "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."