Over-the-limit drivers doubles this Christmas
The number of over-the-limit drivers caught by police over Christmas has more than doubled compared to last year.
Almost 290 motorists have been arrested during West Mercia Police's Christmas drink-driving campaign – compared to 128 last year.
One driver facing court was five times the drink-drive limit. This year's figures, which include those arrested up until December 27, include people held for drug-driving after new laws came into force in March.
Superintendent Daryn Elton, of West Mercia Police, said today's figures were "unacceptable".
He said: "Worryingly, and despite many warnings over the years about the dangers of drink and drug-driving, there are still far too many reckless drivers ignoring the devastating consequences. We're urging people to think hard about the consequences that a collision could lead to."
The campaign, conducted across West Mercia and Warwickshire, saw the arrests of 289 and 105 people respectively.A total of 115 were arrested for drug-driving.
Between 2012 and 2014, 14 people were killed and 182 seriously injured in West Mercia and Warwickshire, following collisions where drink or drugs were recorded as a contributory factor.
Superintendent Elton said: "Cracking down on those who take drugs or drink and then drive is a year-round commitment for both forces. However, we are very aware the festive season can present opportunities where people are tempted to drive after taking drugs or drinking. To combat this, extra patrols will be conducted in the run-up to and over New Year."
