Christmas drink driving campaign launched

Greater Manchester Police launched this year’s Christmas drink and drug driving campaign today (Tuesday 1 December).

To reduce drink driving during the festive season, officers will be increasing spot checks of drivers at peak times and testing for alcohol and drugs.

Officers are also asking people to ‘shop’ drink drivers this Christmas by ringing the independent charity Crimestoppers with information.

Chief Inspector Alec McMurchy said: “I would like to ask that anyone who sees a drink-driver or knows of someone who drink-drives regularly, rings Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and saves a life this Christmas.

“There have been 89 people killed by drink driving on the roads of Greater Manchester over the last five years, either because they were drinking and then drove, or because they were killed by a drink driver. I want drivers to think about all the consequences and find an alternative way to get home this festive season."

The police and other agencies will also be supporting the Department of Transport’s campaign, which is particularly targeting Christmas partygoers and warning people to think before they drive the morning after a big night out.

If you see someone drink driving this Christmas call Greater Manchester police on 0161 872 5050 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.