More than 70 drivers were arrested during the first month of Derbyshire police’s summer drink drive campaign.
The figures for the month of June show that of the 287 drivers were stopped and tested, 72 tested positive, refused or failed a breath test.
Officers tested 182 drivers under the age of 25 with 38 of those testing positive, refusing or failing. This is a reduction when compared to the same period last year.
In June 2012, 198 drivers under 25 were stopped with 51 testing positive, refusing or failing. That represents a drop from just over a quarter failing the test to around 20 per cent.
The figures are being released as part of a national campaign, coordinated by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), to tackle those drivers who drink or take drugs and then get behind a wheel.
Nationally it runs for the month of June, but Derbyshire Constabulary has chosen to extend the campaign until the end of August.
Head of Roads Policing, Chief Inspector Steve Wilson, said: “The reduction in positive tests for younger drivers, one of our priority groups, is pleasing. Our message as ever remains simple – don’t risk lives by drinking and driving.
“We want people to enjoy the summer with family and friends but if you plan to drink make sure you have a designated driver who doesn’t have any alcohol.”
Convicted drink drivers get a criminal record, lose their driving licence for at least a year and they also risk losing their job and increased insurance premiums.
To report a drink-driver contact police on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. If you witness an offence taking place call 999.
For more information about Crimestoppers visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
