DOZENS of people were arrested for drink and drug driving offences over the festive period.

Police arrested a total of 372 motorists across Greater Manchester between December 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020, as part of its 'None for the Road' operation.

Officers breathalysed or drug tested 1,414 drivers during that period, of which 261 were arrested for being over the legal drink drive limit and 111 motorists were arrested for testing positive for illegal drug substances.

Chief Inspector Matt Bailey-Smith who has led this year’s operation, said: “Results from this operation highlight the importance of the ‘None for the Road’ message. I want to reassure the public that although the festive period may have ended, police vigilance will remain at the same level throughout 2020 in a bid to crackdown on drink and drug drivers.

“Drink and/or drug driving can have serious consequences. Following an increase in serious and fatal collisions in 2019, we have stepped up patrols to tackle individuals who get behind the wheel when they are over the limit.

"I would urge motorists to consider their actions and the impact this can have, to not only their loved ones, but also the loved ones of those who may be innocently caught up in collisions. Make this year the year you pledge #NonefortheRoad.”

A total of 1,156 breath alcohol tests were administered, of which 294 followed a collision.

Breath tests involve the individual providing a specimen of breath to obtain an indication of whether the amount of alcohol in the person’s breath is likely to exceed the prescribed limit.

Men over 25 accounted for 725 of those who were breathalysed during the month-long campaign.

Meanwhile, 210 breath tests were administered to men under 25, 160 to women over 25, and 62 to women under 25.

And a total of 258 drug tests were made, of which 80 followed a collision.

Paul Fearnhead, area manager from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Our firefighters are all too often called to serious road traffic collisions, and unfortunately witness life-changing injuries or death – caused by distractions while driving – of too many people.

“Collisions often occur as a result of distractions like driving too fast, mobile phones, and drink or drug driving, and working closely with Greater Manchester Police we continue to urge people not to take the risk of drink or drug driving – the consequences can be devastating and wreck lives.”

To report a drink or drug driver, call police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.