Seven arrests for drink driving in Peterborough over weekend

A statement on the Peterborough force’s Facebook page said: “It’s disappointing to see our officers made 12 arrests for drink driving across the county this weekend, seven of which were in Peterborough.”

Of the 12 arrests officers said three people have been charged, one was taken into custody, another was released under investigation and two were released with no further action after their reading dropped below legal level once in custody.

Police have a dedicated hotline number to report drink or drug driving. 0800 032 0845 is available 24/7, and gives you the chance to help reduce the number of drink or drug drivers on our roads.

Police launched the annual Christmas Drink Drive campaign on December 1 and said that irrespective of Covid-19 restrictions, officers will be enforcing the campaign while on patrol and by carrying out roadside checks due to the serious consequences of drink or drug driving.

It does not matter if people go out or stay at home to celebrate, they may not realise they are still over the limit if they drive the next day.

Sergeant James Thorne, from the BCH Roads Policing Unit, said: “No matter how you choose to celebrate Christmas this year, please do it safely and do not put lives and livelihoods at risk by drink or drug driving.

“It has been a hard year and we understand some people will want to make the most of the festivities. While 2020 has been different in so many ways, the law remains the same. If we catch you driving under the influence, we will prosecute you.

“Whether you stay at home or go out to celebrate, remember that alcohol takes time to leave your system. Every person is different.

“It is very difficult to know exactly how much alcohol has been consumed and how long it will take to leave your bloodstream. You may still be over the drink drive limit the following morning.”

Motorists caught drink or drug driving face a 12-month ban, a large fine, and a criminal record. These can lead to job loss, relationship breakdowns, foreign travel restrictions and increased insurance premiums.

For more information about drink or drug driving, the law and the dangers it can cause, as well as the confidential hotline, visit the Cambs force website.