More than 100 Wiltshire drink and drug driving offences recorded in December

Almost 100 people were arrested during a month-long Wiltshire Police anti-drink and drug driving crackdown.

In December the force launched its campaign 'Don't Risk It' campaign, urging drivers to plan their journeys in advance if they intended to consume alcohol or illegal drugs over the festive season.
During the month, a total of 102 driving offences were recorded and 96 people were arrested.
The police say these arrests came about as a result of officers proactively stopping vehicles after observing poor driving, reports from members of the public or minor collisions in which the drivers were deemed fit to detain by the ambulance service.
Drink driving was the most common offence with 45 arrests, followed by 25 for drug driving, 11 for driving while unfit through drugs and five for driving while unfit because of alcohol.

A total of 11 people were arrested for failing to provide a specimen for analysis when suspected of drink or drug driving and a further five were arrested for being in charge of a motor vehicle while over the legal limit for alcohol.
The total number of arrests were slightly higher than the 2023 figure of 94.
Roads Policing Inspector Steve Jolly said: "I'd like to thank my officers as well as the other teams across the force who dedicated themselves to making Wiltshire's roads safer over the holiday period.
"It is concerning that people are still choosing to take the huge risk of driving after consuming alcohol or drugs. A momentary lapse in concentration while driving can cost a life.
"Our focus on targeting drink and drug drivers throughout the county has not ended now that Christmas has passed. We encourage the public to report people they suspect are committing these offences to us - they will be dealt with robustly."
Drink/drug driving is one of the Fatal Five driving offences which are the main contributing factors in serious road traffic collisions:
- Careless driving
- Drink and drug driving
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Using a mobile phone
- Speeding
Drivers who commit who commit one of these offences are far more likely to be involved in a fatal collision than those who do not.
A police spokesperson said: "If you suspect someone of drink or drug driving, report it. Call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in the event of an emergency."