WILTSHIRE Police and the community safety partnership have launched their annual campaign to combat drink and drug driving over the festive period.

The campaign, which aims to educate drivers about the dangers, launched on Sunday and will run throughout December.

Wiltshire Police will be stepping up roadside enforcement to catch the drivers who ignore the warnings and put lives in danger.

Inspector Steve Cox, head of roads policing, said: “Drink and drug driving is completely antisocial and a grave danger to other road users. We want people to enjoy the festive period but to be mindful of how they intend to return home when out and about.

“By stepping up enforcement over the festive period, and with involvement and support from the public, our aim is to reduce the number of people who consider getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs. I also want to remind drivers that the effects of a night out may still affect you the following morning.

“The message from us is perfectly clear – if you take a chance on drink or drug driving you will be caught.”

The consequences of being caught drink or drug driving can include a 12-month driving ban, a large fine, a criminal record and implications for insurance premiums once the offender can drive again. It can also have a huge impact on personal lifestyle, with people losing their jobs and suffering relationship breakdowns.

All Wiltshire officers will be taking part in the campaign, but specifically the Roads Policing Unit, will conducting high profile roadside checks and they will also be working in conjunction with officers from neighbouring forces.

Anyone who wishes to report an incident of drink or drug driving should call Wiltshire Police on 101 and select option four for the Drink Drive Hotline.