Keighley-based Link Telecom has launched a campaign to clear-up confusion over new laws governing motorists' use of mobile phones.

From the beginning of December, it will be illegal to hold a mobile phone while driving.

Anyone caught flouting the law will face a £30 fixed penalty and persistent offenders could be fined up to £1,000.

But RAC research has shown that many motorists are unclear about, or even unaware of, the new legislation.

Link Telecom is staging an open day at its North Street store, next Saturday, to shed light on the laws and showcase state-of-the-art products - including cradle-mounted hands-free kits and wireless headsets - which will ensure compliance.

A number of kits will be given free to customers as part of the initiative.

Link Telecom plans to hold open days at its other outlets in the run-up to December 1.

Managing director Mike Bower said: "Police forces will certainly be looking to strictly enforce the new law once it comes into effect.

"It is a very serious issue and drivers would be extremely unwise to ignore it when they can easily comply by purchasing one of a number of hands-free options from around £29, which is less than an on-the-spot fine.

"It is also worth remembering that using a phone while driving is fast becoming a form of anti-social behaviour.

"One key point to remember with the festive season fast approaching is that while a legal hands-free product might make an ideal Christmas gift, the best thing people could do would be to buy one as an early Christmas present in advance of the December 1 deadline."

He also has advice for the corporate sector.

"Companies which have people out and about on the road and run their own mobile fleets need to ask themselves the question: 'Whose responsibility is it if someone gets caught?'

"Surely, it must be down to the companies themselves, rather than the individual, to take appropriate action if they expect their people to make and receive calls while out on the road on business.

"Potential problems can be overcome for a relatively small outlay, rather than risk having to fork out thousands of pounds in fines."