POLICE in Hampshire have arrested more than 100 motorists for drink and drug driving offences as part of their Christmas crackdown.

The Joint Roads Policing Unit of Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police (TVP) say they have arrested 102 people in the county during the first 15 days of Operation Holly.

Of the 102 arrests made so far, 85 have been for drink offences and 14 arrests for drug offences. Seven arrests have been made for failing to provide a specimen.

Of those arrests, 74 have led to charges, 19 decisions to bail after arrest, and 12 decisions to release with no further action.

As part of Operation Holly, Hampshire Constabulary will be sending out additional roads policing patrols throughout December and will breathalyse every driver involved in a collision. Regular roadside drug tests are also being carried out when there are 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.”

If any member of the public suspects someone is driving while impaired by drink or drugs, please take action to report details to police.

Phone 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. If you wish to remain anonymous, phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

For more information about drink-driving visit the Hampshire Constabulary website.