A SUMMER drink drive campaign has seen more than 150 motorists arrested in Avon and Somerset.

Police targeted football fans watching late-night World Cup matches during the month-long crackdown which took place throughout June.

In total 158 people were arrested on suspicion of drink driving and for the first time ever, Avon and Somerset Constabulary has released details of the time of day people were apprehended.

The figures show 131 arrests were made between 7pm and 6am, seven arrests were made between 6am and 9am and 17 arrests between 9am and 7pm.

Chief Supt Ian Smith said the times showed how motorists can still be over the limit the morning after.

“This year we have published figures for the times of day that arrests were made to highlight the fact that some drivers could still be over the limit the following morning and that we carry out stops throughout the day and evening,” he said.

"If you are out in the evening enjoying a few drinks this summer make sure you have arrangements in place for getting home, such as a taxi or a lift with friends, and ensure you leave plenty of time for the alcohol to leave your system if you are driving the next day.

"Drinking and driving can lead to collisions and cause serious injury or death and we will look to prosecute anyone found to be over the legal limit. The message is simple, don’t drink and drive.”

He added: “Tackling drink and drug driving will continue throughout the summer.

“Although we run a specific awareness campaign in June, as part of a wider national campaign, the work to prevent drink and drug drivers and help make our roads safer goes on all year round.

“Driving is a privilege not a right and those that abuse that privilege will be targeted.”

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