Nottinghamshire Police made more than 230 arrests for drink or drug driving in December.
A widespread crackdown was launched across the county in the run-up to Christmas and New Year.
The operation formed part of the force’s ‘A Deadly Mix’ campaign, reminding drivers of the potential consequences of driving while under the influence.
In total, 233 arrests were recorded – of which 133 were on suspicion of drink driving, 77 on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, and 23 were on suspicion of failing to provide a sample for analysis.
This was two more arrests than in the same period in the previous year.
Inspector John Lees, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Whilst the results demonstrate a very successful policing operation, it is disappointing this many drivers chose to endanger innocent lives over the festive period.
“The decision to drive while you’re under the influence of drink or drugs takes just a split second, but the consequences could last a lifetime.
“We have first-hand experience of having to deliver the devastating news to the families of those involved in fatal collisions that their loved ones have died. We would not wish this on anyone which is why we work hard throughout the year to tackle these crimes.
“As in previous years, I would like to thank those members of the public who called us to report a drink driver. Our enforcement efforts will of course continue all year round and intelligence from the public is invaluable in keeping our roads safe.”
As part of the ‘A Deadly Mix’ campaign, over 2,000 posters and 5,000 beermats educating road users on the consequences of drink-driving were distributed to pubs all over Nottinghamshire as part of the campaign, with similar messaging running on the back of Nottingham City Transport buses as part of an advertising campaign.
The force also held a series of roadshow events in Nottingham’s Trinity Square, where officers engaged with the public and highlighted the dangers of getting behind the wheel when over the limit for alcohol.
A social media campaign also ran throughout December and included clips from an interview with Nottinghamshire mum Clair Osborne, who lost her husband in a collision caused by a drink-driver in 2021.
Inspector Lees said: “This year, we have placed a greater emphasis on encouraging those planning a night out to think about how they’re getting home – and I would like to thank Clair for the part she has played in sharing this very important message.
“If you have not done so already, please watch her interview. I’d be truly amazed if anyone who saw it then got behind the wheel when under the influence of drink or drugs.
“It was a very emotional interview and I am convinced her words will change attitudes and save lives.
“I would also like to thank the venues that took part in our ‘A Deadly Mix’ campaign by putting up posters and laying out beermats that raised awareness about the impacts and dangers of driving under the influence.”
Anyone with information about suspected drink or drug driving should contact Nottinghamshire Police, by calling 101.
In case of an emergency, or if you believe a crime is in progress, always dial 999.
• Man seriously injured in hospital after fight at Sneinton address
• Elderly woman ‘forced to sign cheque’ for thousands of pounds
• Hundreds of pounds of free security hardware handed to student property landlords and residents
