Drivers warned to think before getting behind the wheel over Christmas

It's as drink-driving offences are on the rise in Shropshire, Hereford and Worcester.

Author: Hannah RichardsonPublished 29th Dec 2023

West Mercia Police are warning people to think twice before getting behind the wheel after celebrations.

Since December 1, 180 arrests were made for drink or drug driving offences.

Just in this week running up to Christmas, there were 73 arrested alone.

In the last three years, 23 people have died and 154 have been seriously injured in collisions across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire where alcohol has been listed as a contributory factor.

A further 12 people have been killed and 68 seriously injured in collisions where drugs have been involved.

Jake Wright is the Force Operations Chief Inspector, he said: "If these numbers don't provide a case and argument to deter people from bad behaviour over Christmas and the New Year, then I don't know what does.

"I think it's an honestly reality of how we're seeing drivers under the influence.

"The figures from the first three weeks show the issue and we've got a case of drivers not taking responsibility on the roads."

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