CHESHIRE Police has reiterated its warning about the dangers of drink and drug driving following the conclusion of its summer drink and drug driving campaign.

The warning follows an increase in the number of drug drive arrests.

Operation Roadster was launched at the start of June as part of the Constabulary’s efforts to combat drink and drug driving and reduce the number of serious and fatal collisions in Cheshire.

The results have indicated the majority of drivers are listening to the warnings issued by police about the dangers of drink driving, with the force recording a slight fall in the number of drink drive arrests.

However the force has seen an increase in the number of drug drive arrests, which is being linked to the new roadside testing kits which were introduced in March.

Supt Bev Raistrick said: “Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous; it affects your reaction time, making it harder for you to judge your speed, judge your distance between you and other vehicles and notice potential hazards.

“All of this means you are more likely to be involved in a collision whilst driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“As well as the dangers there are also serious consequences for anyone caught drink or drug driving.

“Not only do they face losing their licence but also face a large fine, going to court and the possibility of a prison sentence - all of which could have a big impact on their life and may affect their employment.”