Police launch Christmas anti drink/drug driving campaign

‘Don’t risk it’ is the core message of this year's Wiltshire Police Christmas drink and drug driving campaign.

As the first weekend of December approaches, the force is urging people to plan their journey home in advance if they are heading out to cmark the festive season.

The Roads Policing Unit, neighbourhood teams and special constabulary will be stepping up patrols over the coming weeks, working closely with the Road Safety Partnership to target those who get behind the wheel of a car having drunk alcohol or taken illegal drugs.

Acting Inspector Will Ayres said: “As Christmas approaches, we know everyone is getting into the festive spirit with lots of parties and get togethers planned over the coming weeks. We want everyone to enjoy themselves but to do so safely.

"Drink and drug driving is not worth the risk. Whilst we hold a zero tolerance approach all year round, our December campaign will see our officers conducting extensive operations targeting drivers travelling in and out of our towns, cities and more rural locations of a night time, especially at weekends."

Last December, a total of 112 drivers were stopped by officers suspected of drink or drug driving. A total of 11 of these drivers came to police attention after being involved in collisions.

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “I find it impossible to understand what makes anyone think they’re capable of driving when they’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As well as putting themselves at risk, they’re putting the lives of their passengers and the wider public in total jeopardy.

“We want everyone to make it home safely and our Roads Policing Unit works hard to make sure those who drink and/or drug drive are apprehended, but I want anyone who thinks it’s acceptable to drive under the influence of drink or drugs to think about what they’re doing before they’re either taken off the road in the back of a police car or worse still, an ambulance.

“It’s just not worth the risk and cracking down on this type of behaviour will save lives and make Wiltshire safer.”

A force spokesperson said in a message to the public: "If you suspect somebody of drink or drug driving, please report your concerns to www.wiltshire.police.uk or 101 for all non-emergencies. In an emergency, always call 999. Please try and give as much information as possible, including a description of the driver, the vehicle and direction of travel."