GREATER Manchester Police arrested 372 people for drink and drug driving offences over December including the Christmas and New Year period as part of its ‘None for the Road’ operation.
Of those tested, 261 were arrested for being over the legal drink drive limit with an additional 111 arrests made for drivers who tested positive for illegal drug substances.
Chief Inspector Matt Bailey-Smith who has led this year’s operation, said: “Results from this operation highlight the importance of the ‘None for the Road’ message.
“I want to reassure the public that though the festive period may have ended, police vigilance has and will remain at the same level throughout 2020 in a bid to crackdown on drink and drug drivers.
“Drink and/or drug driving can have serious consequences and following on from an increase in serious and fatal collisions in 2019, we have stepped up patrols to tackle individuals who get behind the wheel when they are over the limit.
“I would urge motorists to consider their actions and the impact this can have, to not only their loved ones, but also the loved ones of those who may be innocently caught up in collisions.
“Make this year the year you pledge #NonefortheRoad.”
Area Manager Paul Fearnhead from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Our firefighters are all too often called to serious road traffic collisions, and unfortunately witness life-changing injuries or death – caused by distractions while driving – of too many people.”
To report a drink or drug driver, contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.