Vehicle recovery specialist GEM Motoring Assist has welcomed the announcement that the first conviction for motorway middle lane hogging has taken place in the UK.

The offence was introduced in 2013 but it has taken nearly two years for a motorist to be convicted of breaking the law in this manner, despite the many cases that continue to be witnessed on the nation's roads each day.

Ian Stephens, the owner of a Citroen Berlingo, was fined £940 and received five penalty points on his licence at Leeds Magistrates Court this month.

He had been tracked by police travelling at a constant 60 mph in the central lane of the M62 between Rochdale and Huddersfield last autumn, despite the fact the left-hand lane of the carriageway was free from traffic and he was forcing other motorists to carry out overtaking manoeuvres.

Responding to the news, GEM chief executive David Williams commented: "Dangerous lane hogging is inconsiderate, increases motorway congestion and can inconvenience other road users.

"All drivers should know that they should use the inside lane unless overtaking. When they have finished overtaking, they should return to the inside lane."

He added that this is a welcome conviction and one that sends a strong message to inconsiderate drivers across the length and breadth of the nation.

However, Mr Williams noted it is a shame that it has taken the creation of a new offence and the need for road users to face penalty points and fines before people take heed of the basic rules of motorway driving etiquette.

It is now hoped this will be an effective deterrent for those drivers who are otherwise more likely to ignore the safety of others when taking to the roads.