DORSET Police's Christmas drink and drug drive campaign, which targeted people who drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, proved successful.

Between Friday 1 December 2023 and Monday 1 January 2024, party-goers were encouraged to plan their journeys home, reminded of the potential consequences if they are caught driving while under the influence and encouraged to report suspected drink or drug drivers to the police.

During the campaign, Dorset Police arrested 113 people in connection with 127 suspected drink and drug driving offences during December, and some drivers were arrested on suspicion of both drink and drug-related offences. Of the 113 arrests, 71 people were arrested on suspicion of drink driving; 53 people on suspicion of drug driving and 3 further arrests were made for failing to provide a sample for analysis.

The number of arrests made during the campaign has increased when compared to the same campaign period last year, when 85 arrests were made.

Inspector Craig Tatton, of the Roads Policing Team, said: "During December, we increased operational activity in an attempt to catch drink and drug drivers who put other roads users at risk.

"While it is disappointing to see an increase in the number of suspected drink and drug drive related offences, I am pleased that our increased efforts to tackle those drivers has resulted in so many arrests and potential convictions.

"Drink and drug driving is one of the main causes of deaths and serious injuries on roads in Dorset and the pain this causes to victims' families is devastating, but entirely preventable.

"As in previous years, I would like to thank members of the public who called us to report a drink or drug driver. This intelligence is really important and helps us to keep our roads safe.

"I would also like to thank the venues that supported our 'Lift Legend' campaign, by rewarding designated drivers with free drinks as a 'thank you' for getting their friends and family members home safely; as well as everyone who volunteered to be the designated driver or who took our advice and planned their journey home."

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: "I am pleased to see the increased operational activity as part of the Christmas drink and drug drive operation has yielded a positive result with 113 people arrested during the campaign. Drink and drug driving kills, and while the vast majority of road users are responsible, it is important that those who choose to take the risk and get behind the wheel while under the influence are dealt with robustly.

"I want to be clear, there is no excuse for driving after drinking alcohol or taking drugs and, as demonstrated in my Police and Crime Plan, I am in full support of officers who are relentless in their work to target those who make this dangerous choice, putting themselves and others at risk."

If you suspect someone of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please dial 999 immediately with the vehicle information and direction of travel. 

If you have information relating to someone who regularly drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please call 101 or fill in an intelligence form on our website: www.dorset.police.uk.