POLICE are increasing the number of motorists they stop and search for drink and drugs this month, as part of a summer campaign running throughout the country.

Officers and the roads policing unit will also be using a new drug–impairment test to detect if someone has drugs in their system by breathalysing them at the roadside, as well as testing for alcohol.

With the summer weather, barbecues, festivals and football games, more people will be enjoying a drink or two, so police want to persuade motorists to not drink alcohol before getting into a vehicle.

Last year’s campaign saw 388 motorists in Wiltshire stopped and 11 per cent of those tested positive for alcohol at the roadside.

Inspector Steve Cox, tri force head of road policing unit, said: “The message from us every year is perfectly clear. If you take a chance on drink driving, you will be caught.

“This summer, with involvement and support from the public, our aim is to reduce the number of people who consider getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence of drink or drugs.”

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, added: “As the days get longer and lighter people tend to relax more and tend to drink more. However Wiltshire Police will not be relaxed in their action to tackle drink and drug driving this summer.

“The number of fatal collisions this year is lower than the same period last year but Wiltshire Police is dedicated to continuing their work to keep Wiltshire roads safe because every death is a tragedy and especially if it could be avoided.”

On Tuesday there will be a drink and drug driving event in partnership with Wiltshire Council at Trowbridge town centre.

There will be a crash car display and drink drive simulator for members of the public to see. Road policing officers will also be there to talk to anyone who has any questions about road safety.

Anyone concerned about someone they believe may be drink or drug driving should call police on 101, and select option four for the drink drive hotline and give as many details, such as vehicle details and direction of travel.