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Drink-drive at Christmas at your peril

Sue Carr
7/12/2005

POLICE planning a blitz on drink drivers this Christmas are asking for the public's help.

Almost 600 people nationally died in drink-related accidents last year - the highest number since 1992.

Now officers are urging people to shop those they suspect of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Last year's campaign caught 113 motorists over the limit and one after taking drugs. Following this success it has been extended to run throughout the whole of December.

Chief Inspector Paul Berry, of Derbyshire's Road Policing Unit, said: "I'm disappointed that so many people chose to ignore our warnings and drove after consuming alcohol.

"The percentage of drivers who failed breath tests was higher than the year before, but I believe that there were more positive tests because we targeted drivers more carefully and acted on the information given to us by members of the public.

"Trained staff are ready to take calls on 0845 1233333. Please help us to help you."

The campaign is part of a national crackdown costing £2m to stop people drink driving and putting pedestrians and other motorists as well as themselves at risk.

Television and radio adverts will be shown over the festive period targeting men under 30 as the group most likely to drink drive.

The crackdown also comes just one week after the government's extended licensing laws were introduced.

Anyone who suspects someone of driving while under the influence of drink or drugs should report them to Derbyshire Police or phone Crimestoppers free and in complete confidence on 0800 555111.