Nottinghamshire Police Crack Down on Xmas Drink and Drug Drivers
222 Arrested in Festive Drink & Drug Driving Clampdown
Nottinghamshire Police have launched a hard-hitting campaign to tackle drink and drug driving ahead of Christmas. Over the past four weeks up to 18 December, cops arrested 222 people suspected of driving under the influence. Out of these, 151 were caught drink-driving, with the rest nabbed for drug-driving offences.
‘A Deadly Mix’ Targets Road Tragedies
The campaign, named A Deadly Mix, was sparked by grim stats revealing 263 injuries or deaths in drink-related collisions across Nottinghamshire between 2018 and 2020. To spread the message, the force distributed over 2,000 posters and 5,000 beermats in pubs countywide. Bright warnings also feature on the backs of nottingham/" title="Nottingham" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Nottingham City buses, ensuring the message hits home.
Police Take the Fight to Trinity Square
Officers have been hitting the streets with events in Nottingham’s Trinity Square, engaging locals and warning of the dangers of driving over the limit. Inspector John Lees said:
“We’re always on the lookout for drink and drug drivers but know the festive season tempts more people to break the law. This campaign means operations across Nottinghamshire targeting those who risk their lives and others’. We want people to think twice before getting behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs.”
He added that despite extra policing, hundreds have still made the wrong choice and now face bans and hefty fines.
Victim’s Widow Urges Drinkers to Plan Ahead
Clair Osborne, whose husband was killed by a drink-driver in 2021, is backing the campaign. The 48-year-old from Mansfield Woodhouse implores party-goers to arrange safe rides home. She said:
“If you’ve got dos or Christmas parties, plan your lift or taxi. If anyone tries to tempt you to drink while driving, ask yourself: is it worth it? I live with the consequences every day because someone chose to drink-drive.”
With the festive season in full swing, Nottinghamshire Police’s A Deadly Mix campaign serves a stark warning: think smart, stay safe, and don’t drink or drug drive.
