MORE than 100 people have been arrested since Hampshire Constabulary launched its festive drink drive campaign less than three weeks ago.

A total of 102 people have been arrested across Hampshire since December 1 for drink or drug driving offences, with 72 per cent of those arrested being charged.

As part of Operation Holly, additional roads policing patrols are being conducted throughout December with every driver involved in a collision being breathalysed by police.

And regular roadside drug tests are being carried out when there is reasonable grounds to suspect a motorist may have a trace amount of an illegal drug in their body.

Superintendent Simon Dodds, head of the Joint Roads Policing Unit, said: “Driving under the influence is a deliberate act.

"If you are going out and plan to be having a drink, remove the temptation, leave your keys at home and arrange a lift.

"If you know somebody is driving under the influence – it could even be your friends or family – tell us so we can put a stop to it before it is too late.”

To report an impaired driver contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101 or text 80999 with all the details of the vehicle, driver, location and times.

In a life-threatening emergency, always dial 999.

Hampshire Constabulary’s road safety lead, Sergeant Rob Heard, said: “Motorists who take to the road after drinking alcohol or taking drugs should be under no illusions about what they can suffer.

"Lives are ended or ruined with lasting emotional trauma for the families of all involved. Breaking the law carries the risk of a criminal conviction, time in prison, a ban from driving, and the loss of your job.

“Roads policing officers are committed to doing all we can to make our roads safer through education and enforcement. Our extra patrols this December will continue with specific attention focused on intelligence received about suspected offenders.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank members of the public who’ve been helping to spread our advice and warnings so far, particularly all those who’ve attended our local road safety events and contacted the police with any concerns about a drink or drug driver.

"Your information and support is always important to ensure more people understand and remember why it’s not worth the risk.”