Police campaign sees 179 arrests

Over 170 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink and drug driving offences since 1 December.

Greater Manchester Police have arrested 179 people as part of the ‘None for the Road’ operation, which continues throughout December, and have also breathalysed or drug tested 506 drivers.

Of those, 126 were arrested for being over the legal drink drive limit with an additional 53 arrests made for drivers who tested positive for illegal drugs. Some drivers have been arrested for testing positive for illegal drugs and then also found to be over the drink drive limit.

Chief Inspector Matt Bailey-Smith, from GMP’s Safer Transport Team, said: “We know people know the dangers of drink driving – but so many continue to flout the laws and put their own lives and innocent others in danger. The selfishness of those who get behind the wheel after drinking more than the legal limit astounds me.

“We will continue to step up patrols across the festive period especially as we get closer to Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve to keep spreading the message that the only way to stay safe is have ‘None for the Road’.

“Hopefully this time next year we will see a drop in arrests, and people will stop flouting the laws before it’s too late.”

People can report any concerns regarding drink and/or drug drivers to GMP via the LiveChat function of the GMP website or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, you can call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.