Drink-drive message 'ignored' (From Witney Gazette)

Drink-drive message 'ignored'

MORE than 2,100 drivers were breath tested by Thames Valley Police as part of the annual Christmas crackdown on drink and drug driving.

The campaign was run nationally over the festive period - beginning on December 1, 2007, and running until Tuesday, January 1, 2008.

During that time 2,172 drivers were breathalysed and 300 drivers (14 per cent of those tested) provided positive results.

Last year 1,778 drivers were breathalysed and 224 drivers (13 per cent of those tested) provided positive breath tests.

In Oxfordshire, 419 drivers were tested and 65 were positive.

Superintendent Mick Doyle, of Thames Valley Police Roads Policing Department, said: "I am very disappointed by the rise in this year's figures.

"It seems the message is not getting through to some drivers who insist on risking their own lives, as well as those of other innocent road users.

"We need the help of the public to put pressure on those who insist on putting others in danger by continuing to drink and drive.

"Roadside breath tests are carried out throughout the year and not just at Christmas. If anyone is thinking of driving under the influence of alcohol they should think twice. If you know of anyone who drinks or takes drugs and drives, call police or call the anonymous Crimestoppers charity hotline 0800 555 111."

According to provisional police figures, 120 people lost their lives in collisions in the Thames Valley in 2006, compared to 143 during 2006.

All drivers who provided positive breath tests, refused to provide or failed to provide, face losing their licence for at least 12 months. They could go to prison for six months or pay a fine of up to £5,000.