Drop in number of North East drivers under the influence of drink and drugs

There's been a drop in the number of drivers under the influence of drink and drugs in the North East.

Of those stopped over a four week period before Christmas, 1 in 28 were detected for drink/drug driving compared with 1 in 30 during the same period in 2016/17.

In the North East, officers detected 57 motorists for alleged drink/driving offences - last year 71 people were charged.

The region has performed better than the Scottish average where there has been a slight increase over the past year.

Road Policing Inspector Neil Morrison said: "It is naturally disappointing that the proportion of drink drivers detected nationally has increased, however from a local perspective it is somewhat reassuring to learn that the drink drive message does appear to be hitting home.

"In saying this one detection is one too many, and whilst this drop is welcomed it is still a huge disappointment to learn that for some drink driving remains acceptable behaviour."

Those who fail drink/drug drive tests can face a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record for a lengthy period and a substantial fine.

Inspector Morrison added: "A number of those detected were notified to us as a result of information we had received from concerned members of the public and I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who took the time to phone and report alleged drink drivers and would encourage this practice to continue."