Drink and drive checks stepped up

Roadside stop checks are being increased over the festive period

Police have vowed to catch motorists who drink or take drugs and drive over the festive period.

Patrols and roadside checks will be stepped up throughout December, Kent Police has announced.

The force said it would also be making sure drivers did not use mobile phones and that people were wearing seatbelts.

Insp Phil Hibben said: "Anyone who is caught driving under the influence of drink or drugs will be arrested and dealt with through the courts."

Stop checks

He added: "It is business as usual for Kent Police. We stop people all year long who are found to be under the influence of drink or drugs.

"In December we are stepping up our enforcement activity and will have Roads Policing officers working with local police across the county carrying out stop checks on drivers."

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick was out with one of Sussex Police's anti-drink and drive patrols on Friday for the launch of their campaign.

He said: "Drink driving ruins lives. I've been out with Sussex Police on their first Christmas crackdown this year, and was amazed at how even the smallest sign can give drink drivers away to these highly trained officers.

"Being caught has serious consequences - a criminal record, minimum one-year driving ban and large fine.

"It's not worth paying this price for a couple of drinks at the Christmas party. Leave the car keys at home."