OVER the past five years 27 people have died in Mercia after collisions where drink or drugs were involved.

The figures have been released by West Mercia Police as part of a national campaign to remind motorists about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Officers will be increasing enforcement of drink and drug laws over the next few weeks as the summer can present opportunities where people may be tempted to drink and drive, says West Mercia Police.

The force added that there is no “fool proof way” of calculating how much a person can drink and remain under the limit.

Superintendent Steph Brighton from West Mercia Police said: ‘It’s extremely frustrating that some motorists still selfishly choose to drive under the influence of drink or drugs in the knowledge that their actions could kill or seriously injure themselves or others.

“Drink or drug driving is completely unacceptable and identifying motorists who are prepared to take such a risk is a priority for us.

"Enforcement takes place 24/7 in order to detect those who are willing to take the risk and to protect other road users.

“The simple fact is, there is only one way of being sure that you are under the drink drive limit and that is not to drink at all."