'Drink or drive, never both' warn Surrey Police as summer crackdown starts

The campaign has been launched to coincide with the start of football's European Championship

Author: Josh KerrPublished 11th Jun 2021

As the Euros kick-off later, so does Surrey Police's summer drink-drive campaign.

The force is deploying increased resources to tackle what is one of the five most common causes of fatal and serious injury collisions on our roads.

Officers have also urged the public to report those who get behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs.

Chief Inspector Michael Hodder, of the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “Our aim is to reduce the possibility of people being injured or killed through collisions whereby the driver has been under the influence of drink or drugs.

“However, we cannot do this on our own. I need your help to take responsibility for your own actions and the actions of others – do not drive if you are going to drink or use drugs, as the consequences can be fatal for yourself or an innocent member of the public.

“And if you suspect someone is driving under the influence of drink or drugs, report it to us immediately – you could save a life.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey Lisa Townsend added: “Even having one drink and getting behind the wheel of a vehicle can have fatal results. The message couldn’t be clearer – just don’t take the risk.

“People will of course want to enjoy the summer, particularly as lockdown restrictions begin to ease. But that reckless and selfish minority who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs are gambling with their own and other people’s lives.

“Those caught driving over the limit should be in no doubt that they will face the consequences of their actions.”