Police scheme catches drink-drivers

02/08/11

Matt Gibson

Police across Wales plan to keep up their clampdown on drink and drug-driving after more than 400 motorists were caught      under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs in June.

More than 18,000 roadside tests were conducted by officers as part of the month-long Think Before You Drink operation coordinated between the country's four police forces.

Traffic officers will increase the number of patrols they go on in an attempt to reduce the figures which senior officers described as "alarming".

The highest percentage of drivers getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs was in South Wales. Police in the area, which includes Cardiff and Swansea, tested 3,920 drivers, with 4.8 per cent of them over the limit.

Chief Inspector John Pavett, of Gwent Police's Roads Policing Unit, said: "We remain committed to do all we can to raise awareness of road safety and target offenders. This continues 24 hours a day, 365 days a year."