If anecdotal evidence is anything to go by Gloucestershire County Council could be about to start coining it in as motorists continue to ignore a new road layout in Cheltenham.

Drivers will be fined for driving through the previously busy thoroughfare known as Boots Corner from today (July 16) and the county council has already written warning letters to those breaching the new traffic system.

The once-busy Cheltenham town centre route has been officially closed to traffic since Thursday (July 12), with only taxis, buses and some other vehicles exempt from the forthcoming fines.

Unofficial reports have suggested scores of drivers have still navigated the route since Thursday.

Tracey Crews, of Cheltenham Borough Council, said drivers who failed to obey the new rules had been getting warning letters but they would now be introducing fines.

Fines are expected to be £60, reduced to £30 if they pay within two weeks.

A previous trial closure saw complaints-a-plenty with allegations of unclear signage and complaints from traders.