Police have responded to claims they stopped a driver for going too slowly.

Supt Graham Jepson, Divisional Commander for Central Hampshire, said: "Patrolling officers are often alerted to potential drink-drivers by the manner of their driving.

"Besides travelling too fast or carelessly, 'wandering' or driving well below the limit will also attract attention, as will defective lights, etc.

"We would never discourage anyone from driving below the speed limit. But sometimes it is because that driver is over the drink-drive limit. I'm sure people would prefer officers to be vigilant, rather than have drunk drivers slip through the net and cause injury--or even death."

Chris Hilling, of Eastleigh, was stopped at Hursley for driving too slowly by a suspicious policeman. A breathalyser test was administered, but proved negative.

Police provided an escort when they were made aware that a child passenger in the car was thought to be ill.

Despite a massive increase in car use, the number of drink and drive-related injuries and fatalities is down 50%.

"Some credit must go to improved safety car features and advances in surgical techniques, but I believe that continuing police efforts and more responsible public attitudes have also both played a very significant part in that reduction," said Supt Jepson.