Traffic wardens started patrolling the streets armed with mini-computers to cough out tickets.

While the AutoCite will spare wardens the bother of writing tickets, it will spell misery to illegal parkers.

Information on the machines will be sent directly to computers in Magistrates' Court.

And if a fine is not paid within the seven days allowed, a summons will be automatically sent out.

The scheme is part of a system electronically linking organisations, from the Police and Transport Control Department to the courts, prisons and Attorney General's Chambers.

Police spokeswoman Evelyn James Barnett said it was anticipated Policemen and Marine and Ports staff would soon have the new machines as well.