Motorists warned of increased road patrols

Drink and drug-drivers are being warned they face a one-way ticket to the dock as police plan to step up road patrols during the festive period.

Northumbria Police is backing a road safety campaign which will see more officers on the region’s roads from this week.

The action is part of the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) annual monthlong crackdown on people who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the run-up to Christmas and New Year with police carrying out random stops on the road-side.

A top police officer says the coronavirus pandemic has led to even more traffic collisions on the quieter roads.

Chief Inspector Sam Rennison said: “We don’t know whether we will see the same level of offending as the virus restrictions mean people won’ t be celebrating Christmas in quite the same way.

“But what we do know is there has been an increase in serious and fatal collisions this year and we have seen higher average speeds on the quieter roads.”

He added: “That is why it is so important for us to continue this kind of enforcement action and make sure nobody loses their lives at the hands of a drink or drugdriver.

“We want everyone to make it home for Christmas and would ask you all to think of the consequences of getting behind the wheel under the influence.

“If you do take that risk then we will have extra officers on the road.

"We will stop you, we will arrest you and we will put you before the courts.”