Lancashire Police are arresting an average of 10 people per day on suspicion of drink or drug driving as part of a Christmas crackdown.
More than 300 people have been caught under the influence so far this December – 122 more than last year. Officers say they are ‘determined to keep Lancashire’s roads safe’ and that ‘these arrests are evidence of that’.
They have now issued a warning to people planning New Year’s Eve celebrations, urging everyone to ‘never get behind the wheel impaired’ and have ‘suitable transport arranged’. The crackdown across the county in recent weeks has been praised by people on social media who have been left ‘shocked’ at the number of arrests.
One said: “Excellent work. Thank you. I’ve noticed activity when I’ve been driving round and I so appreciate it, so many lives are devastated by people drink driving.”
Another wrote: “302?! That’s shocking! People clearly don’t care about the potential consequences!” A third said: “A big shout-out to our hard-working bobbies! Good on yer, people!”
Another commented: “Well done. There’ll be people on here calling you all the names under the sun for doing it, but I’d rather someone be arrested for drink/drug driving than attend the funeral of a loved one killed by someone else’s reckless behaviour.”
In a statement on Facebook, Lancashire Police said: “So far this December we have arrested 302 people for drink or drug driving related offences… 122 more than last December! We are determined to keep Lancashire’s roads safe, and these arrests are evidence of that.
“If you are heading out tomorrow for New Years Eve, please always make sure you have suitable transport arranged. Pre-book a taxi, use public transport or have a designated sober driver in your group.
“NEVER get behind the wheel impaired. Driving under the influence is not worth risking your licence, or life.”
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