Police hail Christmas drink drive campaign a ‘success’

Greater Manchester Police have hailed their Christmas drink drive campaign a success after more than 12,000 people were breath tested and 450 people arrested.

In Rochdale 28 motorists gave positive breath tests.

This year’s operation took place across the region between 1 and 31 December 2011.

Police also carried out 43 Field Impairment Tests (FIT), where drivers were tested at the roadside for driving under the influence of drugs. 34 people were arrested on suspicion of drug driving.

Chief Inspector Mark Dexter from GMP's Roads Policing Unit said: "Over the last few years we have seen a gradual reduction in the percentage of people testing positive for alcohol over the Christmas period.

“This year is no exception, with only 4 per cent of those tested proving positive.

“However, the fact is that 450 people still chose to ignore our message and it’s vital for people to remember that drink driving costs lives.

“It is important to remember that drink driving kills and injures people all throughout the year and if you know someone who drink drives report them to the police or call Crimestoppers anonymously.”

The independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.