More than 30 vehicles stopped in drink drug drive operation

The Wiltshire Police drink and drug drive campaign continues across the county raising awareness of the potential dangers and consequences of drink and drug driving.

Officers from Swindon’s Community Policing Team were joined on Friday 10 December by officers from the Wiltshire Police Roads Policing unit on Wootton Bassett Road Swindon, to carry out traffic stops targeting those motorists who pose a risk to themselves and the lives of other road users.

During the evening more than 30 vehicles were stopped by officers, all drivers were asked to undertake a breath test and all drivers tested negative.

The results from the evening included:

One person fined for not wearing a seatbelt

One person reported for no insurance

One person reported for vehicle defects

One person was given words of advice because their vehicle was on the weight limit.

Sgt Leigh Mayhew from the Roads Policing Unit who joined the operation in Swindon said: “The drink and drug drive campaign is an important part of our operational calendar.

“I was really pleased to see on this occasion that all members of the public who were stopped and breathalysed gave a negative result.  

“However we did see a number of motor offences which could have resulted in a serious traffic incident, or a serious injury if a collision had taken place.

“Along with our message to raise awareness of the dangers of drink and drug driving, I would also like to remind the public to ensure their vehicle is winter road ready. Check the vehicle’s brakes, lights, tyres, make sure the screen wash is topped up and you are prepared for winter conditions.

The drink and drug driving campaign continues throughout December with operational activity taking place county wide.

Sgt Mayhew continued: “I would like to thank those members of the public who were stopped on Friday, of which most were very understanding and in support of the campaign.

“Please remember any amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive. If you drive under the influence of drink or drugs you are placing yourself and others at risk.”

If you are concerned about someone driving under the influence of drink or drugs call 101 and select 2 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

In an emergency always call 999.