POLICE are warning people not to drink and drive in Warrington during the festive season.
A campaign, which started on December 1, has already resulted in dozens of motorists being arrested as a result of drink or drug driving.
Officers will continue to breath test drivers, stopping them at all times of the day and night.
Last year just over 4262 breath tests were carried out over the month long campaign, which resulted in 201 arrests.
This year’s campaign between December 1 and 17 has so far resulted in 89 people failing roadside drink or drug 
tests. A total of 81 men and eight women were arrested in the first 17 days of the county-wide campaign. Of these 89 people, a quarter were aged 17 to 25, despite government and police campaigns.
Assistant Chief Constable Phil Thompson, who is responsible for the policing of Cheshire’s roads, said: “Despite all the best efforts to stop residents drink and drug driving, 89 people still risked their safety and the safety of others, behaviour that is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Our message is to never drink and drive.
“The figures are disappointing but we will not stop repeating the message that drinking and driving do not mix, for the safety of them and other road users.
“We want everyone to have a great Christmas and so we’re repeating the message – if you are going out to celebrate this festive season leave the car at home. If you drink take a taxi or get a lift to work the following day.”
Lee Murphy of the Cheshire Safer Roads Partnership added: “It is impossible for anyone to assess their own capability to drive after drinking and/or taking drugs because it creates a false sense of confidence. Because of this, such drivers are more inclined to take risks, believing they are in control when they most definitely are not. Impaired driving has serious consequences: not only will you wreck your own life, but, tragically, the lives of innocent people will also be ruined.”
Information about drivers who drink/drug drive can be reported to the police via the Cheshire Police website at www.cheshire.police.uk, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the non-emergency number on 0845 458 0000.
Pictured: an officer carries out a drug impairment test
Final warning on drink driving
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About Author
Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
