Striking drink driving campaign launched by Leicestershire and Rutland police
Leicestershire Police made 149 drink drug drive arrests during December 2021's campaign
Leicestershire and Rutland police have partnered up with Co-operative funeral care to launch a new, striking drink and drug driving campaign.
Officers were out in force alongside funeral directors in Leicester, who brought with them a hearse and a vinyl-printed coffin covered in imagery relating to car crashes and people being taken away in ambulances.
Leicestershire Police say it's all in a bid to dissuade people from taking the risk of driving under the influence of drink or drugs:
'It's about educating people, it's not all about prosecution - if my advice can get through to one person and that saves their life or makes them think I'm not going to have that extra pint, I'm going to spend that money on a taxi then, that's my job done, I'm happy', said roads policing officer Andy.
He added: 'Particularly at this time of year we're always aware of people drinking and driving but at Christmas time people are more festive - people might be going out, meeting friends, now COVID's finished, and they might have a few more than usual.'
'That's why we're out here trying to educate people - making them aware it's not acceptable, it's dangerous and it could take their life in the end.'
Richard, from co-operative funeral care, said:
'This vinyl-wrapped coffin with a very graphic message has such a striking impact - and if that's another way of getting this message across, and it makes somebody think about drink driving, then that's a really good thing.'