The aim of the campaign was to protect the public from the dangers of drink and drug-driving over the festive period, by educating motorists and targeting offenders. It was run in addition to proactive patrols carried out 365 days a year.

A total of 174 arrests on suspicion of drink and drug driving were made by Surrey Police during the operation which ran from Wednesday, December 1 to Saturday, January 1. Included were 73 arrests on suspicion of drink-driving, 82 on suspicion of drug-driving, one for both offences and 18 for failure to provide a specimen.

See also: Driver Arrested On Suspicion of Drug Driving After Collision with War Memorial

Chief Inspector Michael Hodder, from the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “These statistics are really disheartening – although most road users are conscientious and law-abiding citizens, there is a stubborn minority of people who refuse to comply with the law. Not only is this putting their own lives at risk, but also other innocent people’s lives as well.

“These people may think that nothing bad is going to happen to them, but in reality even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your judgement and seriously increase the risk of you injuring or killing yourself or someone else.

“Those that have been arrested and convicted as part of this campaign, will be publicly named on our website and social media platforms.”

A police spokesperson said: “If you’re prepared to drive under the influence of drink or drugs, prepare to face the consequences. These could include the following:

• Killing or seriously injuring yourself or someone else;
• A minimum 12-month ban;
• An unlimited fine;
• A possible prison sentence;
• A criminal record, which could affect your current and future employment;
• An increase in your car insurance costs;
• Trouble travelling to countries such as the USA.

“If you know someone is driving while over the limit or after taking drugs, call 999.”