HIGH visible police roadside stop checks have lead to a reduction in the number of motorists drink-driving across the county over the Christmas period, according to police. From December 1 to December 23 a total of 92 drivers were arrested for being over

HIGH visible police roadside stop checks have lead to a reduction in the number of motorists drink-driving across the county over the Christmas period, according to police.

From December 1 to December 23 a total of 92 drivers were arrested for being over the limit as part of Cambridgeshire police's festive drink-drive campaign.

This figure is down on last year when, during the same period, 149 motorists were found to be breaking the drink-drive laws. The figure for 2006 was 201.

PC Tony Barrios, casualty reduction officer said the results are encouraging and urged motorists not to get behind the wheel if they have had a drink.

He said: "We would obviously like the figures to be zero but we see the reduction as positive.

"Drink and drug driving enforcement is a vital tool on the reduction of fatal and injury collision.

"Our message is clear - if you drive under the influence of drink and drugs, expect to be caught and brought to justice."

PC Barrios puts the reduction in drink-drivers down to officers carrying out more roadside stop checks than ever before and stopping more vehicles than previous years.

He said: "We've had more officers out conducting highly visible drink and drug driving tests than ever before and we have received positive feedback from the public.

"Drink-driving has devastating consequences and anybody you speak to will tell you that it is unacceptable but people still do it."

As part of the campaign, which ends on Thursday (January 1, more than 6,000 drivers have been stopped by police.

The maximum penalty for drink-driving is a six-month prison sentence, £5,000 fine and a driving ban of up to 12 months.

Breath tests have been used to detect motorists driving under the influence of alcohol and field impairment exercises have been used to check for drivers on drugs.

As part of the campaign three drivers have been arrested for being under the influence of drugs.

PC Barrios said: "Cambridgeshire Constabulary is committed to reducing the number of drink drivers and we will do all we can to ensure that those over the limit or under the influence of drugs are caught and dealt with appropriately.

"Drink and drug drivers are not only putting their own lives at risk but also the lives of others. There are no winners when it comes to drink and drug driving.