THE festive season is a time when families, friends and colleagues join together to celebrate.
But as Greater Manchester Police are warning, it’s also a period when social gatherings lead to an increase in drink and drug driving.
The force has launched its annual operation to tackle what it says is a “persistent issue” of impaired driving during the festivities.
During last year’s campaign, 507 motorists were arrested for drink or drug driving offences. Of those, 19 arrests were made on Christmas Eve, 13 on Christmas Day and 43 on New Year’s Eve.
The month-long campaign runs until Wednesday, January 1, 2025 and will see an “intensified” police presence across all 10 boroughs – including Tameside and Oldham.
GMP says officers are carrying out breath and drug testing operations at the side of the road at “strategic locations”.
They add that they will ensure “maximum coverage during peak periods” – particularly during weekends and the morning after nights out.
Greater Manchester Police
The force’s Roads Policing Unit saw a 16.25 per cent increase in arrests in 2023 – compared to the previous year – for a range of offences, not just drink and drug driving.
GMP puts the rise down to more Roads Policing officers, as well as an increase in road-side drug wipe training across the force and more breathalyser kits being rolled out last December.
Police are urging people enjoying the festive season to plan their travel arrangements ahead.
“We’re not here to stop people having a good time,” said Chief Inspector Michael Parker, of the Safer Transport Team.
“We’re asking people to plan ahead – book a taxi, arrange a designated driver, or stay overnight. Remember, you could still be over the limit the morning after drinking – it’s not worth the risk.
“The consequences of drink or drug driving can be devastating and life-changing, not only do offenders risk losing their licence and potentially their job, but they also risk taking innocent lives. No Christmas party or night out is worth that.”