The public has backed mandatory eye tests for drivers amid alarm over crashes caused by poor sight.

Nearly one in four drivers (24 per cent) have not had an eye test in the past two years, a new survey suggests.

The poll, commissioned by insurer Churchill, comes amid growing concern over the lack of checks on drivers once they pass their test.

Drivers in the UK must read a number plate 20 metres away as part of their driving test, but that is the only time they are required to prove their sight is good enough to drive.

The NHS recommends people have their eyes tested every two years.