DON’T START THE NEW YEAR IN A POLICE CELL

Drivers are being warned they will start 2009 in a police cell if they get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs this New Year’s Eve.

The national Christmas drink and drug driving campaign is due to finish on 1 January 2009.

So far – between Monday 1 December and Sunday 28 December – there have been 113 arrests in Dorset for failed or refused breath tests, that’s down from 134 for the same period in 2007.

Chief Inspector Bob Nichols, from the Specialist Operations Unit of Dorset Police, said: “Traditionally, New Year’s Eve is a busy time for officers and in 2007 more arrests were made for drink driving on New Year’s Eve than on any other night of the year.

“As well as risking death or serious injury, if caught drink driving you will face a 12 month driving ban, up to six months in prison, a fine of up to £5,000 and a criminal record – severe consequences at any time of the year and certainly not the best way to start 2009.

“Hopefully the fall in arrests so far in the campaign means that our message is getting through but drivers shouldn’t be complacent – it is never acceptable to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs.

“Officers from the Traffic Unit and Safer Neighbourhood Teams across the force will be carrying out extra patrols on New Year’s Eve to provide high visibility deterrence and to remind people of the consequences of drink or drug driving.”

Motorists are advised not to get behind the wheel after drinking any alcohol at all.

If any member of the public suspects that a vehicle is being driven by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs they should contact Dorset Police immediately by dialling 999 – so that officers can intercept the vehicle.

Members of the public can also call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 or the Dorset Police non-emergency number on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22.