COURTS in the North-East and North Yorkshire have dramatically improved their collection of fines after new measures to tackle non-payment.

Figures show that North Yorkshire, Cleveland and Durham all hit Government targets to prevent offenders escaping without paying.

In recent months, Cleveland and North Yorkshire have successfully chased up defaulters who have dodged penalties in previous years.

Two years ago, a report by the House of Commons warned the payment of fines was almost voluntary in many areas.

Since then, magistrates' courts have been given powers to target defaulters, including the power to deduct fines from wages or benefits.

Fines are no longer written off after 12 months and offenders who fail to provide their financial details are guilty of a fresh offence.

In 2003-2004, Cleveland collected 91 per cent of fines levied, rising to 114 per cent in the first three months of the year as past fines were brought in.

Durham (90 per cent and 93 per cent) and North Yorkshire (98 per cent and 138 per cent) also soared past the Government target of 75 per cent.

North Yorkshire's was the best performance in the country in the last quarter - and almost three times better than the worst, which was Merseyside (51 per cent).

Penalties can also be increased if offenders fail to pay on time, while those who pay early can get reductions. Offenders who are genuinely unable to pay the fine can be made to do unpaid community work as an alternative.

The average proportion of fines collected in 2003-2004 was 74 per cent.