Drivers who ignore red traffic signals in Norfolk have been blasted by police for putting their lives and those of others at risk.

The warning comes as new figures revealed more than 900 red light runners have paid more than �50,000 in fines over the past five years.

Statistics released by Norfolk police showed 1,115 drivers were issued with fixed penalties of �60 for jumping red lights between April 2005 and the end of March this year.

Of that tally just over 900 fines were paid, while each offender also had three penalty points added to their driving licence.

A Norfolk Constabulary spokeswoman said: 'Traffic signals ensure that pedestrians and drivers alike are kept safe when using the roads.

'Breaking the law by running a red light is not acceptable and can lead to serious consequences with offenders being arrested for dangerous driving.

'Despite so many people acting sensibly, there are still a few who continue to ignore the danger. Offences can lead to �60 fines and three points on licences.

'If drivers go through a red lights resulting in a serious or fatal road traffic collisions then those drivers could end up with a prison sentence.'

A pilot scheme is being trialled by road policing officers in Norfolk where drivers who have committed the most minor red light offences may be offered a re-education restorative justice course.

This course looks at the possible consequences of their actions and helps motorists improve their driving ability.

The number of fines issued increased each year from 2005/06, when 168 were issued and 137 paid to 2008/09 when 268 were issued and 220 paid.

In the past financial year 2009/10 the number issued and paid fell slightly, with 256 issued and 216 paid.

Unsurprisingly, Norwich was the place where most fines have been paid over the five year period, with just under 500 paying up just under �30,000.

King's Lynn was second with 289 and Great Yarmouth third with 171.

In Suffolk, 1,171 fines were issued for jumping red lights, of which 948 were paid – a total of just under �57,000.

The Highway Code states that a red light means stop, as does red and amber, while amber means stop at the stop line.

The rule book says drivers may go on at amber only if it appear after you have crossed the stop line or are so close to it that to pull up might cause an accident.

The Highway Code also says even when lights are on green, traffic should only go forward when the way ahead in clear.