WILTSHIRE Police have warned they will actively target any motorists they suspect are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs over the festive season.

Launched this week, the Christmas campaign of high profile roadside breath testing and drug screening is aimed at cutting the number of people hitting the roads while unfit to get behind the wheel.

Last year it resulted in more than 68 arrests. A total of 18 gave positive tests or failed to provide samples following crashes, while 10 were arrested because of suspected drug use.

Sgt Gavin Brewster of the Wiltshire road safety unit warned: “If people choose to drink alcohol excessively or take drugs before getting behind the wheel we will catch them.

“We encourage our public to report those they know to be doing this via our drink drive hotline or Crimestoppers. We will actively target any drivers we suspect to be driving under the influence.”

Police will be armed with new devices that will allow them to find out what drugs a driver has taken. They are also encouraging the public to report anyone they suspect is drink or drug driving.

Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Angus MacPherson said: “The message is that anyone who thinks of getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs will run the terrible risk of endangering pedestrians, cyclists other drivers and their passengers.

“Police forces now have smart detection devices to screen for a range of drugs and they are adopting an intelligence-led approach, combined with local knowledge, to locate the dangerously irresponsible minority who seem prepared to ruin their lives and those of other road users at what should be a time of peace and goodwill.”

The potentially fatal consequences of driving while unfit through drink or drugs will also be brought home to the public at special roadshows backed by organisations including Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service and Swindon Borough Council.

On December 19 outside the SSE building in Faraday Road, Dorcan the wreckage of a crashed car will be put on display. People will also be able to try out a simulator that shows them how alcohol affects their ability to drive.

There were 240 drink-driving related deaths in Britain during 2014.

Research has found that drivers who have consumed both drugs and alcohol are 23 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than sober drivers.

The campaign runs until January 1. To report a suspected drunk or drugged driver can call the drink drive hotline on 101 or dial 999 if it is an emergency.