SNEAKY drivers who use their mobile phone out of view below the wheel could be snared by cops on horses.

Police Scotland’s Mounted Unit confirmed that they will be on the lookout for motorists who flout the law by using their mobile phone behind the wheel.

Sergeant Alan Gilbert, of the Mounted Unit, said his team of officers will issue tickets to any drivers who attempt to use their mobile phone while they in control of the car.

He said the Mounted Unit has previously issued tickets while out on the roads for other motoring offences such as not wearing a seatbelt.

He added that the height of ‘Mounted’ officers gives them an advantage over police officers on foot or mobile car patrol as they are able to see drivers attempting to use their mobile phone under the wheel.

The Mounted Unit are based at a farm in Stewarton and can be dispatched across the city for football matches, concerts and to help officers tackle crime hotspots.

The Mounted Unit consists of 20 horses, which are all named after Scottish places.

The Evening Times previously reported on the unit’s training methods ahead of big events such as the Old Firm game.

The unit played a big role in the policing operation of the Old Firm and are expected to be used at other big events in the city of Glasgow in coming months.

Earlier this month, Police Scotland warned motorists that the law was changing and using a mobile phone while driving could result in tougher penalties.

Under the new legislation, which came into force on March 1, drivers caught using their mobile phone while driving will receive six points and a £200 fine.

Police Scotland figures released last week revealed that a total of 42 people were charged or reported over the first five days of the new penalties being imposed.

Those Scotland-wide figures, however, were higher over the two-week campaign to highlight the new penalties.

A total of 210 people were either given a ticket or reported to the Procurator Fiscal for the offence.

Chief Superintendent Andy Edmonston, Head of Road Policing for Police Scotland, previously said: “Any driver will be distracted by a phone call or text message as it affects the ability to concentrate and anticipate the road ahead, putting the driver and other road users at risk."