NEARLY 250 people were arrested for drink/drug driving in West Mercia in December.

Police arrested 148 people for drink driving, while an additional 96 people failed the roadside drugs test last month.

Figures show there were also 52 collisions in West Mercia over the course of December where the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The figures come as West Mercia Police took part in a national campaign to crack down on drink and drug driving.

Over the past three years, 43 people have died and 215 have been seriously injured in West Mercia following collisions where drink or drugs were recorded as a contributory factor.

Superintendent Gareth Morgan for West Mercia Police said: “Cracking down on those who take drugs or drink and then drive is a year round commitment for West Mercia Police. The majority of people on the roads are behaving responsibly, however these results over the last month indicate that there are still people out there who think it is acceptable to risk mixing drinking or taking drugs with driving, ignoring the devastating consequences this could have to themselves, family, friends and other road users.

“Despite all the warnings, 244 motorists are now starting the new year facing a court hearing, losing their licence and a fine. Enforcing the drink and drug drive law will remain an important part of our roads policing throughout the year as we strive to make our roads as safe as we possibly can, removing those from our roads that continue to think they are above the law.”