Cumbria police operation leads to three drug driving arrests

Cumbria Constabulary took part in a road safety operation

Three drivers were arrested after failing roadside drugs tests as part of a special operation in Cumbria.

Police said 31 vehicles were pulled over on Friday in the Carlisle area and on the M6.

Checks were also carried out, with six vehicles banned from travelling any further due to mechanical defects, Cumbria Constabulary said.

Insp Jack Stabler said police were working to stop impaired drivers before they "cause a tragedy this Christmas".

"I urge everyone to think carefully about their travel plans in advance so they are not tempted to drive whilst over the limit," he added.

"Doing so risks tragic consequences for yourself and other innocent road users."

Officers were joined by Cumberland Council, the Environment Agency and the DVSA.

Authorities were also attempting to tackle waste regulation and compliance.

Five vehicles were stopped for being too heavy, with four of them banned from leaving until the overload was removed.

Action was also taken against four people who failed to produce waste transfer notes or a waste carrier's licence.

John Bunn, from the Environment Agency, said: "We are determined to make life hard for waste criminals by disrupting and stopping illegal activity through tough enforcement action.

"By working with our partners, we can deliver effective interventions in the areas where it matters, take robust action against those who break the law and make it fairer for legitimate waste businesses."

Cumberland Council called the operation a "resounding success".