Extra patrols to curb drink-driving during festive period

Officers to hold roadside checks across Cambridgeshire

Extra roadside checks and patrols will be carried out by police officers across the region to tackle drink-driving during the festive period.

Cambridgeshire Police said 726 suspected drink and drug drivers had been arrested across the county so far this year.

A dedicated operation will take place at Cambridge Services on the A14 on 13 December, also targeting vehicle roadworthiness and modern-day slavery.

So far this year there have been 38 crashes where someone was killed or seriously injured on the county's roads where alcohol or drugs were involved, police said.

Concerned people can report drivers on the force's hotline

A total of 14 pubs and venues across the county have signed up to support the force's campaign, where the police are promoting a designated driver scheme where participating venues give free or discounted soft drinks to drivers.

The initiative, led by the Vision Zero Road Safety Partnership, aims to reduce the number of crashes caused by drink driving.

To take part in the December scheme, people need to let staff in participating venues know they are the designated driver and, if asked, to show their car keys.

'Do not gamble with your life'

PC Nick Southern, the force's casualty reduction officer, said: "Whether you stay at home or go out to celebrate this Christmas, please remember that alcohol takes time to leave your system, and you may still be over the drink drive limit the following morning.

"This includes people doing everyday activities such as driving to work, doing the school run, going to the shops or to see friends.

"Please do not gamble with your life and be aware of the danger you pose by getting behind the wheel while under the influence.

"I'd also like to remind people that they can help us make our roads safer by reporting others they suspect of driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.

"We have a dedicated hotline and all calls are taken in confidence. One call could save a life."