‘Our message is clear’ – Lancashire Police launch annual Christmas drink and drug drive campaign

Lancashire Police are urging motorists not to drink or drug drive throughout the festive season.

Operation Limit is a national campaign that runs throughout December. It aims to prevent drug and drink-related casualties across the Christmas period.

Extra road policing patrols will be out across the county, as well as using drink and drug check sites. The campaign also involves messaging on pub screens, petrol pumps and other locations.

The campaign will see officers out between now and the New Year stopping drivers at checkpoints and targeting people where intelligence suggests they may be drink or drug-driving.

Police say they know everybody will want to indulge in some festive cheer, but want to make it clear they will not tolerate anybody putting lives in danger – whether they’ve had a heavy night out or just a little tipple with lunch, they could be over the limit, and the consequences are never worth it.

‘Last December, police conducted 307 drug wipes and 2,189 breath tests. Officers arrested and charged 314 people with either drink or drug driving. Each year, this figure sadly rises, particularly with regards to drug driving offences.

Figures show men between the ages of 20-39 make up more than half of all drink and drug drivers. Many of these men still test positive from drugs or alcohol consumed the night before.

Supt Dave Hannan from Lancashire Police said: "We carry out activity all year round to keep our roads safe. But we know that Christmas is a busy time on the road network. With more parties and social events, people will potentially be indulging more. The wintry weather also brings extra risks.

“Everyone on our roads has a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe. We have zero tolerance for those who choose to drive impaired.

‘’Regardless of how confident you feel about your driving ability under the influence, you are risking serious harm or death. It's never, ever worth it. This is reckless, selfish and dangerous behaviour.

“There is no appropriate time for taking illegal substances and there is no way to guarantee how long it may take for drugs or excess alcohol to leave your system.

“This is why our officers will be out on the roads, day and night, across the county looking for signs of impairment and stopping motorists at checkpoints doing alcohol and drug screening tests.

“Our message is simple: say no to drink or drug-driving so everyone can stay safe and get home this Christmas.

‘’We also ask that if you know anyone who drink or drug drives, do the right thing and report it. You may save a life or prevent someone from injury. Friends don’t let friends put themselves in danger.”

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, said: "Driving under the influence of drink or drugs is completely unacceptable. Anyone who chooses to endanger the lives of others on our roads should expect to face the full force of the law.

"Targeted enforcement operations like this are vital for improving road safety and sending a clear message that getting behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs will not be tolerated.

“We know the devastation these reckless choices can cause. If you’re going on a night out, plan, nominate a sober driver, book a taxi, or use public transport. Don’t risk becoming the reason for a tragedy on our roads this Christmas.”

Anyone who suspects that someone is either about to, or is currently, driving under the influence should call 999.