DRINK driving hotpots are being more heavily policed over the Christmas period as part of a crackdown on the festive scourge.

North Wales Police said it will station more officers on roads which see the most drink and drug drive offences as alcohol consumption increases over December.

This year there have been 1,200 drug drive arrests, an increase of 22 per cent compared to last year, as well as almost 800 drink drive arrests.

Alcohol consumption increases by more than 40 per cent during the final month of the year.

“This year has been particularly difficult and we understand people may want to enjoy themselves but we are reminding them that getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence can have dire consequences,” said chief inspector Jon Aspinall, of the Roads Policing Unit.

“We’re not just talking about losing a licence, which often results in the loss of employment, driving under the influence leads to far too many serious and fatal collisions.

“This year we know there won’t be big office parties, but that doesn’t mean people won’t be looking for a release after a difficult period. With this in mind, we’re asking people to plan ahead, to think about what they may do and to be sure to arrange a taxi home.

“We’re also reminding people that if they are drinking alcohol at home that they should know their limits and be mindful that they could still be under the influence the morning after.”

Between January 1 and November 30, the force made 1,223 drug drive arrests compared to 957 during the same period last year.

Driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol can lead to slower reaction times, poor concentration, confusion, fatigue, over-confidence and risk-taking.

“Your ability to drive is significantly impaired and the chances of you being involved in a collision will drastically increase,” added Mr Aspinall.

“We now have more officers trained to undertake the roadside drugs test including response and local neighbourhood policing officers. Please don’t think the rural nature of the region affords you protection because it doesn’t.

“Our patrols will continue 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Anybody who gets behind the wheel whilst under the influence should expect to be arrested and put before the courts.”