Motorists back police crackdown on drink-drivers

Iwona Bachla says she fully supports Lincolnshire Police's campaign to catch drivers under the influence of drink and drugs

Police have launched a month-long campaign in Lincolnshire to catch drink and drug drivers over the festive period.

Det Insp John Treharne, from Lincolnshire Police's serious collision investigation unit, said one in five fatal collisions across the country involved a driver or rider affected by drugs or alcohol.

"That's what we are trying to prevent," he added.

Motorist Iwona Bachla, 44, described anyone driving while under the influence as a "potential killer".

Lincolnshire Police says it will be carrying out extra patrols during the Christmas party season

She said: "I hate people who are driving and drinking alcohol - for me that is a potential killer.

"Of course they [police] should [stop drivers], especially in the morning around the weekend."

The campaign, which will see the force put on extra patrols during the Christmas party period, attracted support from those who were pulled over earlier on the opening day of its launch.

Ben Booth, 23, said it was "the right thing to do", especially during the festive season when people were going out more.

Mick Nicholson, 62, said a drunken person behind the wheel could "take a whole family out".

Another motorist, who did not want to give his name, said more people succumbed to peer pressure, possibly drinking more than usual.

Simon Outen-Coe, from Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership, echoed the sentiments.

"If you are one of those individuals who believes this is a safe practice, or frankly just don't care, then just remember – your decision will have a lasting impact," he said.

"It may just be the loss of your job, house and driving licence. In the worst circumstances, it will be the loss of your freedom and the incredible lasting hurt that your selfish actions have had on others."

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