Heightened patrols and free soft drinks as Hampshire Constabulary and Dorset Police clamp down on Christmas drink and drug-drivers

Free soft drinks are being offered to designated drivers amid Christmas drink and drug-driving crackdowns across the New Forest and Christchurch. Police across Hampshire and Dorset will increase patrols throughout December, and some pubs in Christchurch are offering free soft drinks to encourage designated drivers. Hampshire’s Operation Holly campaign recorded 142 drink-driving offences and 136 drug-driving offences across the county and Isle of Wight last year.

The festive drink and drug-driving crackdowns are running throughout December (picture: stock image)

Roads policing unit Ch.

Insp. Emma Hart said: “There is absolutely no excuse for anyone getting behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs. “Every year we arrest people who think they can get away with it.

Don’t let that person be you this December.”

Motorists are reminded that even a small amount of drink or drugs can significantly impair driving. This increases the risk of a fatal collision that devastates families, particularly when it is caused by an impaired driver. In 2022, 18% of 57 fatal collisions on Hampshire and Isle of Wight roads had drink or drugs recorded as a contributing factor.

Christmas revellers are urged to make arrangements like having a designated driver or booking a taxi.

They should also remember they can still be too impaired to drive the morning. “Just don’t do it. If you do, we will catch you and you will be arrested,” Ch.

Insp. Hart added. Dorset Police is again running its popular Lift Legend campaign to complement its crackdown this year.

Designated drivers buying a soft drink in one of 70 participating venues will receive a voucher to get their second drink free until New Year’s Day.

Christchurch venues are among those participating in Dorset Police’s Lift Legend initiative (picture: Dorset Police)

Premises involved include Amberwood Inn in Walkford, The Fisherman’s Haunt in Winkton, and Christchurch’s Bailey Bridge and Stourvale. Last year, Dorset officers arrested 319 people suspected of drink and drug-driving – one of the ‘fatal five’ causes of serious injuries and deaths on the south-west’s roads. Social media channels will be used to raise awareness of the dangers of drink and drug-driving.

There will also be intelligence-led checks and engagement with motorists.

Dorset Police education operations manager Laressa Robinson said: “Tackling drink and drug-driving is a priority for Dorset Police. Officers will be out in force throughout December, rigorously targeting those who are a danger on our roads, day or night.

“This vital work is complimented by the Lift Legend initiative, which encourages those heading out to a Christmas party or festive night out to plan their journey home and nominate a Lift Legend.” People should report suspected drink or drug-drivers by calling 999 if an incident is ongoing, or by calling 101 or visiting hampshire.police.uk or droset.police.uk

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously at crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.

For more information about the Lift Legend scheme visit dorset.police.uk/LiftLegend