NINETY people were charged with drink-driving over the Christmas period in North Yorkshire - 26 more than the same period last year.

Tip-offs from the public helped police crack down on those who got behind the wheel while under the influence during the festive celebrations.

But North Yorkshire Police have warned that the anti-drink-driving message should not be thrown out with the Christmas tree, as they will continue their safety campaign full-time.

Between December 4 and January 2 a total of 90 people were charged with driving with excess alcohol.

Of those charged 29 were arrested in central division, which includes York, Selby and Tadcaster, 31 in the western division, which includes Harrogate, and 30 in the eastern division, which includes Malton and Scarborough.

The biggest increase from last year, 82 per cent, is seen in the western division, which had an extra 14 people charged.

Both central and eastern division saw increases of around 25 per cent with an extra six people charged in each.

Of the 90 people, 54 were charged between December 18 and January 2.

Separate figures, which are to be sent to the Home Office, show that North Yorkshire Police administered 352 breath tests between December 18 and January 2 following collisions in the county.

Of those tested 11, or 3.1 per cent, were positive, the driver failed to complete the test or they refused to take part, all of which are treated as a positive result by police.

Traffic Sergeant Mick Crome said: "There's still people drinking and driving but not many are getting involved in accidents.

"This is a year-round campaign, it is not just going to stop because the Christmas period has stopped."

Updated: 14:20 Tuesday, January 08, 2002