POLICE say they will continue to crackdown on drink and drug drivers after arresting more than 370 people in December.

Officers breathalysed 1,414 drivers in the run to Christmas as New Years Ever as part of a special campaign called None for the Road.

Of those tested, 261 were arrested for being over the legal drink drive limit with an additional 111 arrests made for drivers who tested positive for illegal drug substances.

Chief Inspector Matt Bailey-Smith who led the operation, said: “Results from this operation highlight the importance of the ‘None for the Road’ message and I want to reassure the public that although the festive period may have ended, police vigilance has and will remain at the same level throughout 2020 in a bid to crackdown on drink and drug drivers.

“Drink and drug driving can have serious consequences and following on from an increase in serious and fatal collisions in 2019, we have stepped up patrols to tackle individuals who get behind the wheel when they are over the limit.

“I would urge motorists to consider their actions and the impact this can have, to not only their loved ones, but also the loved ones of those who may be innocently caught up in collisions. Make this year the year you pledge None for the Road.”

Fire Service Area Manager Paul Fearnhead added: “Our firefighters are all too often called to serious road traffic collisions, and unfortunately witness life-changing injuries or death – caused by distractions while driving – of too many people.

“Collisions often occur as a result of distractions like driving too fast, mobile phones, and drink or drug driving, and working closely with Greater Manchester Police we continue to urge people not to take the risk of drink or drug driving – the consequences can be devastating and wreck lives.”

To report a drink or drug driver, contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

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