A MONTH-LONG drink and drug driving campaign involved the arrests of 86 drivers in Swindon.

The police's annual effort to prevent people getting behind the wheel while they are under the influence saw officers carry out extra patrols and checks to target motorists who drove dangerously in December.

In total, they arrested 45 drivers on suspicion of drink driving and handcuffed 31 others on suspicion of drug driving offences.

Police arrested four drivers for failing to provide a sample while being suspected of drink or drug driving.

Six drivers were subject to drink and or drug drive procedures in hospital after road traffic collisions.

Of those arrested, 15 incidents took place on just New Year’s Eve alone.

Inspector Mark Freeman leads the Wiltshire Police Roads Policing Unit.

He said: “We are pleased that over the course of this winter campaign we have identified and arrested 86 people who were placing themselves and others at risk through the selfish actions of drink or drug driving.

“With ongoing awareness alongside regular campaigns it’s disappointing that people in our community still see drink or drug driving as acceptable.

“Our winter awareness campaign has now come to an end.

"But whether it is drink or drugs, illegal or prescription, we must all be aware of the impact that driving whilst intoxicated can have, and that irresponsible behaviour like this cost lives.

“The campaign may have ended but the work continues to keep our county safe through education and enforcement.

“Unfortunately drink or drug drivers continue to place others at risk throughout the year.

"If you know someone who drives under the influence, please report them by calling 101 or report online.”.

When reporting drink or drug driving, police suggest giving as much information as possible, including the driver’s details or description, their car registration and a time or day they always do it.

Anyone who believes that a crime is being committed and somebody is already behind the wheel should call 999 immediately.

In England, the alcohol limit is 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath. Drug limits vary but a swab test can catch offenders.

Less urgent information can be reported on 101 or on the Wiltshire Police website www.wiltshire.police.uk