Police are targeting drink and drug drivers in the run up to Christmas and New Year after nearly 100 offenders were caught in the same period last year.

Thames Valley Police has launched Operation Holly in Bucks, Berkshire and Oxfordshire, aiming to enforce and educate drivers on the dangers of driving under the influence.

Last year’s operation saw 527 breath tests and 105 drug wipes carried out on drivers. 27 of the breath tests and 68 of the drug wipes were positive – a total of 95.

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This year, running from December 1 to January 1, Thames Valley Police hopes to remind drivers that drink and drugs can increase the chances of road users being killed or seriously injured in crashes.

Sergeant Dave Hazlett, Road Safety Sergeant of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “Every year we run Op Holly and every year we find that people still take to the roads having drank too much alcohol or having taken drugs that will impair their driving.

“Having even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system can have an effect on your ability to drive and will make it more likely that you or another road user could be injured, or in the most serious cases, killed.

“Not only is it important to plan how you are going to get home after drinking so that you are not getting behind the wheel, it is also important to plan the morning after.”

If the chance of causing a serious accident was not enough to deter potential drink or drug drivers, those who are caught and convicted can also face serious penalties.

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People who are caught under the influence while behind the wheel can face fines, community service, and possibly even jail time. Everyone who is found guilty of drink or drug driving will also face a lengthy driving ban.

Sgt Hazlett added: “It’s always possible that you may still be over the limit the next morning. It can take hours for alcohol to leave your system and some drugs can stay in your system for a considerable amount of time too.

“Therefore, this festive season, please plan your journeys and think about how you are going to get home to prevent the possibility of families facing Christmas and the future without their loved ones.

“Don’t drink or drug drive – It’s not worth the risk.

“If you know of anyone who is drink or drug driving call 999 in an emergency, 101 with information or report via Crimestoppers.”

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