Drivers who put lives at risk by blocking roads used by emergency services have been urged to abandon their reckless ways.

Fire and ambulance chiefs have pledged their support to Surrey County Council and Surrey Police's Park SMART campaign, which is trying to tackle anti-social parking.

Lorna Stuart, a manager at South East Coast Ambulance Service, said “You may think that stopping by the road for just a few moments will not cause a problem but this could mean the difference between life and death for a patient with a life-threatening condition. This is why we are asking the public to support this campaign.

"We would ask motorists to think very carefully about where they park their vehicles even if it is just a for a few moments.”

Park SMART is part of SCC's and Surrey Police’s Drive SMART campaign, which is combating all aspects of anti-social driving in the county.

Councillor Andrew Povey, leader of SCC, said: "It’s widely accepted that anti-social driving such as tailgating or talking on a hand-held mobile phone is irritating and dangerous. However, people who park badly probably don’t realise the danger they could be causing. Seconds can cost lives in an emergency so I would urge people to be more careful when parking.”