Almost 200 drink and drug drivers were arrested in the first two weeks of traffic police officers' annual Christmas campaign.

Thames Valley Police said 1,123 breath tests and 174 drug checks were carried out between December 1 and 15, as officers patrolled the region’s roads as part of Operation Holly.

In total, 36 people blew over the drink drive limit and 79 people tested positive for cocaine or cannabis.

Almost 200 people were arrested – 104 for drink driving and 91 for drug driving.

Sgt Dave Hazlett said: “For anyone out there considering driving after drinking alcohol or taking drugs over the festive period, these figures should act as a serious warning.

“We are out in your communities, and if we know the signs of drink and drug driving – so is it worth the risk of being caught, let alone the harm you could do to yourself and other road users?”

He added: “Drink and drug driving is one of the four main causes of injury and death on our roads. Even the slightest amount in your system could reduce your ability to drive safely, therefore increasing the risk of causing serious harm to yourself or others.

“We are making arrests and will be stopping more vehicles as the operation progresses, with the help of officers across all areas of Thames Valley Police.”

The officer thanked the majority of drivers who were not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

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