More drivers than ever before have been breath tested during the All Wales Christmas Drink Drive campaign.
Throughout Wales, almost 55,000 drivers were breath tested by the four Welsh forces in the campaign, which ran from 1st December 2009 to 1st January 2010 – compared to over 36,000 in 2008.
The campaign was launched in Caernarfon by the four Welsh forces and the Welsh Assembly Government, with the support of the families affected by the fatal collision which occurred in Menai Bridge in February 2009.
In North Wales 16,398 breath tests were administered which resulted in 131 arrests.
Out of these 2,936 tests were administered to under-25s which resulted in 38 arrests.
In Gwent, 20,578 breath tests were administered which resulted in 80 arrests. Dyfed-Powys Police carried out 10,863 tests with 141 arrests and in the South Wales Police area, 6, 956 breath tests were administered with 285 arrests.
Deputy Chief Constable Ian Shannon said: “It is disappointing that drivers still put their own lives and other road users’ lives at risk, just to have a drink, with over 600 people caught over the drink drive limit throughout Wales during the month-long campaign.
“We will continue to target drink and drug drivers throughout the year. Our enforcement is not seasonal. There has been public support for this approach, and together we can help make our roads safer for all.”
Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones said: “We are determined to do everything we can to make the roads of Wales safer; however we cannot do this alone. We need the support of the public to be able to make a real impact. I urge everyone to play their part – drink drive limits cannot be calculated and the only safe way is for you not to drink and drive.”
If you know of someone who regularly drinks and drives, or if you suspect someone who is behind the wheel whilst under the influence of alcohol, contact North Wales Police on 101, 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) or 0845 607 1002 (English line).
Alternatively send a text message to 66767 or email – [email protected]
