Police in Cheshire say they are “seriously concerned” about the number of young and elderly drivers who ignore warnings about drinking.
Officers made 181 arrests during the Christmas/New Year drink drive crackdown.
Almost 40% of those were under 30 years old, and another 18% were aged 50 or over.
Assistant Chief Constable Ruth Purdie (pictured) said: “The figures are very similar to those for the previous year and they are disturbing.
“We consistently highlight the fact drinking alcohol or drug-taking do not mix with driving.
“Our enforcement measures are very high profile, especially over Christmas. It seems some younger drivers are still not getting the message and some older drivers have lost sight of lessons they may have learned years ago.
“Over the Christmas and New Year period, some had risked having a couple of drinks and were surprised to find they were over the limit. Others felt they would be okay because they had had something to eat as well as a few drinks.
“In fact, just one drink impairs your ability to react quickly and efficiently to situations which develop. The only safe way to approach this issue is not to drink at all if you intend to drive.”
In the period from December 1 to January 1 inclusive, 181 drivers were arrested. Over the same period in 2010, 161 drivers were arrested.
It’s a pity that there are so many irresponsible people on our roads and good work by the police that they have been nicked. Those who use mobiles whilst driving are not much better and it goes on all the time.