Think before you drink, police campaign urges

The World Cup kicks off next week, and officers will target motorists throughout the day—not just after last orders.

Breath tests will be given after crashes and where police suspect the driver may be under the influence of drink or drugs.

They will also invite motorists to volunteer for a test, to educate them about the dangers.

South Yorkshire Police’s chief inspector for roads policing, Stuart Walne, said: “We know the public don't want drink drivers on the roads.

“With the World Cup starting this month, the number of people drinking in pubs and at home is likely to increase and therefore the temptation to drink and drive is also likely to go up.

“In order to address this, South Yorkshire Police is increasing its drink and drug driving enforcement across the county.

“To raise awareness of the dangers, efforts will focus on educating road users.

High visibility roadside breathalyser testing will take place across the county to deter those who may be tempted and reassure the vast majority or law abiding road users.”

The month-long initiative fits in with the national Association of Chief Police Officers campaign.

Chf Insp Walne added: “Both the police and the public know that drink driving kills people and is a factor in road traffic collisions.

“Drink driving is an all-year-round issue that increases during events such as the World Cup.

"We hope our high profile awareness raising will help remind drivers that drinking and driving wrecks lives.”

“If you know someone that regularly drives while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, I would urge you to contact South Yorkshire Police on 0114 220 2020 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”