Figures reveal rise in seasonal drink driving

One per cent increase in arrests despite Wiltshire Police campaign

THE NUMBER of drivers testing positive for alcohol or refusing the test altogether showed a slight increase this festive season.

Figures released this week by Wiltshire Police show that a total of 2,760 drivers were breath tested in as part of its Christmas Drink Drive Campaign which ran throughout December.

Of that number 85 either tested positive or refused or failed to provide a sample of breath, which equates to three per cent of the total number.

Of those tests, 541 (20 per cent) were conducted following accidents and of those, 25 (four per cent) either tested positive or refused or failed to provide a sample of breath.

Officers also arrested 10 people on suspicion of being under the influence of drugs. Six of these arrests were made following collisions.

Inspector of for Roads Policing and the Serious Collision Investigation Team, Steve Cox, said: ‘This year's figures show a one per cent increase in the number of those testing positive or failing to provide a sample of breath compared to last year.

“‘Drink or drug driving and the possible consequences that can result have a devastating effect not just on individuals but on families, friends and entire communities. Despite this there are still those who consciously decide to take a risk and that is unacceptable.

“‘People can be assured that we will always take action against those who choose to take this risk and officers continue to test people every day of every week, not just at Christmas.'