SIXTY-seven people were caught driving under the influence of alcohol last December.

That was out of the 1,049 drivers who were stopped to do a breathalyser test as part of Thames Valley Police’s Christmas drink and drug driving campaign, Operation Holly.

Officers also found that out of the 80 drug wipes, 44 were positive.

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The force, with Hampshire Constabulary’s Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, has launched the campaign again.

Sergeant Scott Kerr, road safety Sergeant for Hampshire and Thames Valley Police urges people to plan only necessary journeys during the festive season.

He added: “This year, with the restrictions imposed by the Government as a result of the pandemic, it is important that if you drink at home it is done sensibly and responsibly. In licensed premises such as pubs and restaurants, they serve measured amounts of alcohol.

“However, at home it is unlikely that you measure exactly how much alcohol you pour into a glass.

“Therefore, it is crucial to think about the morning after. It can take hours for alcohol to leave your system after drinking, so the next morning it still may not be safe for you to drive.

"Additionally, some drugs can stay in your system for a considerable amount of time too.

“I am urging people to plan only necessary journeys during the festive season and to think about how they are going to get home, and the effects alcohol and drugs will have on those journeys.

“Our message is simple: Don’t drink or drug drive – It’s not worth the risk.

“If you know of anyone who is drink or drug driving call 999 in an emergency, 101 with information or report via Crimestoppers.”