117 over-the-limit drivers are caught

POLICE have arrested 117 people during the first fortnight of a crackdown on drink and drug drivers.

Between December 1 and 16, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers breathalysed almost 3,000 motorists and 117 of those gave positive breath tests. Thirty nine of those arrested were breathalysed following a collision.

GMP joined forces with emergency services and Drivesafe at the end of last month to launch the campaign, None for the Road.

Officers have been conducting breath tests around the clock and are set to continue throughout the festive season.

Insp Matt Bailey-Smith, from GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “The dangers of drink-driving are well documented yet more than 100 people have chosen to ignore this advice and make a very selfish decision to get behind the wheel after a drink.

“It’s impossible to guess a ‘safe’ amount to drink if driving, which is why we advise avoiding alcohol altogether and having ‘none for the road’.

“Christmas is a time for family and friends and the last thing they want to deal with at this time of year is the loss of somebody they love because of something that could have been so easily avoided.”

Follow @gmpolice today from 4pm as they tweet live from a drink-drive patrol.