Drink-drive figures see sharp increase

Drink drive figures have increased by 70%

The number of people caught drinking and driving in the West Midlands has increased substantially according to latest police figures.

More than 400 people have been arrested since the beginning of 2003, a 70% increase on the same period last year.

The rise comes despite an aggressive anti drink-drive campaign over the Christmas period.

The campaign was aimed at a hard core of potential drink-drivers, because police say most people now agree it is socially unacceptable to drink and drive.

Sergeant Brian Wevill: "people are complacent"

However officers say they are shocked by the latest figures.

Sergeant Brian Wevill told BBC Midlands Today: "I think people are getting complacent, they are getting blasé about the campaign over the years.

"They think it is worth the risk to go out and drink and drive."

More than 400 people were arrested over the festive period for being over the limit, refusing to give a sample, or for being suspected of taking drugs.

On a more positive note, the number of arrests for drink-driving after an accident fell by 17%.

Police are now warning motorists their campaign will not end because the festive season is over.