Random drink and drugs drive campaign launched

A major anti-drink drive and drug campaign will begin in Welshpool today and run throughout the summer as part of the police’s annual summer clampdown.

Coinciding with the UEFA European Championships, police officers will be setting up random checkpoints throughout the area as part of the campaign that will be mirrored across all four Welsh police forces.

The move is expected to see officers stopping vehicles on roads throughout Newtown and Montgomeryshire at various times through the mornings, daytime and evenings, with the campaign beginning today.

Last year in Wales the campaign saw officers carrying out over 12,000 breath tests, of which over 300 roadside breath tests were positive. 52 arrests were made under the new Section 5a drug drive offence.

Dyfed Powys Police Assistant Chief Constable, Pam Kelly said: “Whilst drink or drug driving has become socially unacceptable there is still a small group of drivers who offend in this way. We will continue to target any drivers who drive while under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.

“If you drink and drive you will potentially not only ruin your life, but the lives of others. There is absolutely no excuse for drinking and driving and the consequences can be devastating. Think before you go out, watch what you drink and plan how you will get home.”

Although this is a month-long focussed campaign, the drive to change attitudes, increase road safety and catch offenders continues all year round.

If you have information relating to someone you think is driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please contact Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always dial 999.