New year's drink drive warning (From Malvern Gazette)

New year's drink drive warning

2:15pm Friday 30th December 2011 in News

WITH New Year celebrations set to be in full swing tommorow night, revellers are being reminded of the dangers and potentially devastating consequences of drinking and driving.

Police and the Safer Roads Partnership have been working hard to raise awareness of drink-driving throughout December, using roadside checks and promotional material.

But they say their message has clearly not reached everyone, as 166 people have been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol since the start of the month in the West Mercia force area.

And with thousands of people across the county planning nights out or parties, extra patrols will be in place tomorrow to ensure the streets are safe for all.

Vicki Bristow, of the West Mercia Safer Roads Partnership, said: “There are still people out there who think they know how much the limit is or will gamble with drinking and driving thinking they won’t get caught. It’s unfortunate that nearly 170 people so far have been arrested for driving under the influence of drink or drugs this Christmas.”

She also urged people not to enter a car as a passenger if they suspect that the driver has been drinking or taking drugs.