Drink and drug driving blitz begins

POLICE are stepping up spot checks at peak times to test motorists for drink and drugs over the festive season.

Greater Manchester Police today launched its Christmas anti-drink and drug driving campaign and officers are also asking people to “shop” drink drivers by ringing the independent charity Crimestoppers with information.

Chief Insp Alec McMurchy said: “I would like to ask that anyone who sees a drink-driver or knows of someone who drink-drives regularly, rings Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and saves a life this Christmas.

“There have been 89 people killed by drink-driving on the roads of Greater Manchester over the last five years, either because they were drinking and then drove, or because they were killed by a drink-driver.

Consequences

“I want drivers to think about all the consequences and find an alternative way to get home this festive season.”

The police and other agencies are also supporting the Department of Transport’s campaign, which is particularly targeting Christmas partygoers and warning people to think before they drive the morning after a big night out.

If you see someone drink-driving this Christmas call GMP on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers,.