Motorists heeds drink drive campaign

As national drink drive figures are released, local figures still show a low percentage of those providing a positive breath test.

In West Mercia only about eight per cent - 121 people - of those breathalysed during a special campaign in June either refused to give a test or tested positive.

An additional 107 people failed the new roadside drugs test as part of the campaign.

The national month long summer drink drive enforcement campaign that was launched on June 1 by the National Police Chiefs Council.

Over the past three years, 122 people have been killed or seriously injured in West Mercia as a result of collisions involving drink or drugs.

Chief Superintendent Steve Cullen said: "“While the results indicate that the majority of motorists are using our roads responsibly, there are still irresponsible drivers out there who think they can risk drinking or taking drugs and driving.

"They ignore the devastating consequences that this can cause for them, their family, friends and

other road users. I welcome that we now have both the testing ability and legislation in place to

tackle those people who think it’s acceptable to drive under the influence of drugs and this will

continue to form an important part of our policing in future campaigns.

“Enforcing the drink and drug drive law is a year round commitment for both forces, and we continue to work with our partners to reduce harm on the roads.”