TWENTY people have been arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving in the first week of North Yorkshire Police’s Christmas crack-down.

Eight of them have been charged and will appear in court by the end of the year.

Traffic Sergeant Andy Morton, of North Yorkshire Police’s Road Policing Group, said: “The Christmas Safety Campaign has been running for one week now and as part of the initiative we have been targeting people who think they can get away with drinking and taking drugs before driving.

“Put simply, anyone who gets behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs is putting lives at risk and we will not tolerate it.
Of the 20 arrests, seven were in York, six were in the Harrogate and Ripon area, two were in Craven, two were in Thirsk, and there was one each in Selby, Scarborough and Leyburn.

TS Morton said: “Throughout December we will be out in force on the roads of North Yorkshire and the City of York and if you take the risk you are likely to be caught.

“The simple alternative to drink driving is to plan your journey home in advance of a night out. Book a taxi, arrange for someone to pick you up, take public transport or appoint a designated driver – all are far better options than a night in a cell, a driving ban, or causing serious injuries to yourself or someone else.”

As part of the campaign, officers are also reminding people to be mindful of their personal safety and the security of their homes and vehicles.