20 arrests made in Christmas crackdown on drink and drug drivers

More than 300 motorists were stopped in Hertfordshire throughout December, as part of a Christmas crackdown on drink and drug driving. 

The Road Policing Unit and local policing teams stopped 330 people in the festive month to either test them for alcohol or cannabis and cocaine, as part of an annual campaign targeting motorists who choose to get behind the steering wheel whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

Of those stopped, 12 people were subsequently arrested for providing a positive breathalyser or failing to provide, and eight people were arrested for a positive drug wipe. 

Chief Inspector Steve O'Keeffe, head of the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit, said: "December is a time for people to celebrate, but to do so safely. The teams were out and about across Beds, Cambs and Herts to ensure people were abiding to the laws of the road and not drinking and/or taking drugs and driving. 

"Unfortunately, some people still continue to break the law which is unacceptable behaviour. We do thank those who celebrated safely though and planned ahead by either booking taxis or nominating a designated driver. 

"We want to stress that we look out for this all year round – not just at Christmas. So, our advice continues to be, always avoid alcohol or taking drugs if you are driving. Alcohol impairs your judgement and makes reactions slower, which significantly increases the chance of being involved in a collision."