24% rise in people arrested for drink or drug driving over festive period in Lancashire

Wednesday, 8 January 2025 16:41

By Central Radio News

Lancashire Police arrested 331 people for drink or drug driving related offences in December 2024, 24% more than last year.

Operation Limit is undertaken by every force across the UK during December, with its main aim being to deter and catch drink or drug drivers.

With all the festivities that take place in December, police still see people choosing to get behind the wheel after a Christmas party, festive tipple or celebration.

However, Lancashire Police say they have taken a firm stance against impaired driving, making the highest number of arrests for the December period.

From 1^st December 2024 to 1^st January 2025, officers have conducted 1552 roadside breath tests and 309 roadside drug tests on drivers in the county.

Head of Specialist Operations at Lancashire Police, Superintendent Hassan Khan, said: “It is a real shame that every year, we see people making the poor decision of driving impaired. No matter how ‘easy’ or ‘short’ you think the drive is going to be, it is never worth risking your license, job or life.

“It is shocking to see a record number of arrests this December, but I hope this demonstrates to the public our dedication to keeping Lancashire's roads safe.

“Although Op Limit is now over, we are still out conducting roadside drug and alcohol tests daily. There is hard work going on behind the scenes every day at Lancashire Police and I would say to anyone who chooses to get behind the wheel impaired: you will be stopped, tested and prosecuted”.

Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner added: “Drink or drug driving is unacceptable but sadly it's clear that too many people choose to ignore the dangers that come with it and put lives at risk.

"It is a selfish choice to make, and I am pleased to the see the proactive approach taken by Lancashire Constabulary.

"I will continue to work closely with the Constabulary and support targeted operations like Op Limit to arrest offenders and keep Lancashire's roads safe."

If you witness a drink or drug driver, you can report them to Lancashire Police anonymously via their online form or to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

If the person is about to drive always call 999.