Hundreds of motorists arrested during summer drink and drug drive clampdown

Police officer carrying out a breath test

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) arrested 275 motorists during this year’s summer drink and drug drive operation.

More than 800 motorists were stopped as part of a month-long crackdown in June and 258 tested positive for drink or drugs, compared to 238 last year.

Two hundred and twenty nine (229) were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, while 29 were arrested for drug driving.

Of those arrested 69 tested positive following a collision.

The ‘None for the Road’ campaign was launched at the beginning of June, which coincided with the warmer weather and Euros, which police expected would bring more of a temptation to drive under the influence.

New kits and legislations were introduced last year making it quicker and easier than ever to catch drug drivers. Using a swab of saliva, officers can test at the roadside for cannabis or cocaine.

Inspector Susan Redfern, from GMP’s Road Policing Unit, said: “Our figures show an eight per cent increase of drivers getting behind the wheel with drugs and alcohol in their system and this is unacceptable.

“The consequences of drink and drug driving have been well advertised but as the figures from our summer operation show, there are still far too many people ignoring advice and putting lives at risk.

“Please stick to ‘none for the road’ if you’re driving. If you’re under the influence, please arrange alternative transport home or nominate a designated driver to get you home safely.”

To report a drink driver please call 101 or 999 if they pose an immediate threat to themselves or others.