Festive crackdown on drink and drug drivers
Police launch Operation Holly
DRINK drivers who put other people’s lives at risk over Christmas will face the full force of the law, police have warned.
Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police have launched Operation Holly, a month-long campaign against drink and drug driving.
The campaign will target motorists who take to the road while under the influence, with more than 1,000 people expected to be tested in the coming month.
Last year, 1,049 breath tests were car ried out with 67 positive results, and from the 80 drug wipes car ried out, 44 were positive.
Sgt Scott Ker r, road safety sergeant for Hampshire and Thames Valley Police said: ‘ Every year we run Operation Holly, with increased focus to stop people drink or drug driving.
‘Even the smallest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system can impair your ability to drive and in the most serious cases, it could result in families facing a future without their loved ones.
‘This year, with the restrictions imposed by the gover nment as a result of the pandemic, it is important that if you drink at home it is done sensibly and responsibly.
‘In licensed premises such as pubs and restaurants, they serve measured amounts of alcohol.
‘However, at home it is unlikely that you measure exactly how much alcohol you pour into a glass.
‘Therefore, it is crucial to think about the mor ning after.
‘It can take hours for alcohol to leave your system after drinking, so it may still not be safe for you to drive.
‘Our message is simple. Don’t drink or drug drive – It’s not wor th the risk.’
If you know of anyone who is taking to the roads under the influence of drugs or alcohol, call 999 in an emergency.
Alter natively, people with infor mation can call 101 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.