The number of people arrested during this year's Christmas drink and drug driving campaign fell by 25 per cent compared with last year.

A total of 100 people were arrested during the campaign - which ran from December 1 2012 to New Year's Day, down from 133 last year.

Of the drivers arrested during this year's campaign, 79 were men and 21 were women. More than half  were between 25 and 50 years old.

During the campaign police carried out more road-side checks and patrols as well as breath testing every driver involved in an accident.

Traffic Sergeant Joe Pardey said: “It is encouraging to see that the number of drivers risking their lives, and the lives of other road users, by choosing to drink and drive over the festive season has reduced.

“Most of the motorists stopped were very supportive of the officers' actions and fully supported the campaign to reduce road casualties.”

Officers also acted on information submitted by the public to intercept suspected drink drivers.

Sergeant Pardey continued: “The message seems to be getting across to the people of Dorset that drinking and driving is dangerous and just not worth the risk.

“However, I'd continue to encourage members of the public to contact us if they suspect someone is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol so we can take action.”