Christmas Drive Driving Rates Down in Huntingdon

Either less people had a drink and then drove over the Christmas period or they were more sneeky took the back roads and got away with it this time. I'd like to think the first statement is true. That is what police believe as the annual Christmas drink drive campaign did indeed find less drivers found to be over the limit.

Officers stopped more than 5,000 motorists across Cambridgeshire during the campaign which ran from December 1 until December 31 and they arrested 110 people, compared to 121 arrests last year (Christmas 2010 that is).

PC Steve Gedny, Casualty Reduction Officer, said: "While it's encouraging to see fewer drivers arrested than last year, sadly any arrest is one too many.

"It appears our message is getting through, but it is always disappointing to see that there are still a number of motorists who think it is acceptable to drive while under the influence of drink or drugs.

"Last year we asked for voluntary breath tests for every motorist we stopped. This year we carried out more targeted stop checks, using intelligence to target known offenders or areas with a problem.

"This work was not just about enforcement but reminding motorists that officers are on the roads 24/7 as a deterrent to those contemplating driving under the influence.

"Although the campaign is over, our work will continue as we strive to make the roads safer."

Photo: smiling da vinci