200 drivers arrested in Avon and Somerset in drink-drive campaign

ALMOST 200 drivers have been arrested for drink drive or drug driving offences across Avon and Somerset.

So far a total of 180 arrests as part of Operation Tonic since it was launched on December 1.

Drivers caught drinking and driving or driving while under the influence of drugs risk a fine of up to £5000, a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record and could end up behind bars and without a job.

Last year 231 drivers were arrested for drink driving and drug driving offences, with 7000 drivers nationally arrested.

Operation Tonic was launched nationwide on December 1 and officers from the roads policing unit have been acting on intelligence to target known "hot spots" and also reacting to public information provided on drivers believed to be drink driving.

This year members of the public are being urged to shop a drink or drug driver by ringing 999 or texting the word drunk to a special number, 81819, from their mobile and giving the driver's details if they see anyone getting behind the wheel while under the influence.

Almost 1,000 targeted stops have been held be police across the force area over the past three weeks – including Christmas – which have resulted in 180 arrests.

Vehicles that are stopped are checked for road worthiness and also checks made if they trigger the automatic number plate recognition system. Advice is also provided by officers.

Now police want motorists to take care during the build-up to the New Year celebrations.

They have repeated their warning "not to drink and drive."

Anyone planning to go out and celebrate the New Year is being advised to nominate a non-drinking driver, arrange alternative transport and leave the car at home.

Motorists are also advised to be aware of the risk of being over the limit the following morning if they are consuming large amounts of alcohol into the early hours of the morning. They still risk being over the limit and risk being arrested and could ultimately end up behind bars and lose their job.

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