TRAFFIC police and Vehicle Inspectorate experts were today testing exhaust emissions from buses, coaches and heavy goods vehicles in York.

The clampdown on vehicles belching fumes into the city sky was prompted by calls to York police from concerned members of the public.

Vehicles found to fail the emission tests, which were taking place across the city, could be immediately pulled off the road until they complied with regulations.

Of the first dozen buses and coaches stopped outside York Railway Station, none fell foul of the law.

TC Rich Gatecliffe, of York police, said the operation was aimed at reducing air pollution in the city.

He said police welcomed tip-offs from the public about vehicles pumping out smoke.