GIVE drink and drug driving the red card this summer – that was the message used to kick-start Hampshire Constabulary’s summer drink and drug-driving operation.

Launched this month in support of the national campaign by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, the message was crystal clear: “Now Euro 2016 is under way we are urging drivers to think twice before taking the risk of drink and drug-driving.”

From now until July 10, officers will be pro-actively patrolling and targeting high-risk locations and carrying out hundreds of tests day and night to ensure that people who recklessly take the decision to drink and/or drive under the influence of drugs during the tournament will be caught.

Commenting on the campaign, Sergeant Rob Heard said: “A number of drivers continue to ignore the risks and drive their vehicle after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Despite the recent fall in drink-driving convictions, the harm caused by those who still drink-drive is in fact increasing.

“The Government has estimated there are more than 200 fatalities every year caused directly by drink and drug drivers.

“There are many more casualties who suffer serious, life-changing injuries that in many cases require life-long care.

“We want to make drivers aware of both the risks involved by drink and drug driving and the serious penalties which they will face if they are caught.

“Combining illegal drugs with alcohol is especially deadly since it has been found that drivers who have consumed both are 23 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than sober drivers.”

Officers are now better equipped than ever to stop, arrest and convict those who drink or take drugs and get behind the wheel. Under new legislation, drink drivers with a breath specimen of less than 51mg per 100ml are no longer entitled to request a blood or urine sample.

Sgt Heard, added: “If you’re celebrating or commiserating during Euro 2016, don’t drive while under the influence and give yourself time to process any alcohol before driving the next morning. It’s a simple decision for drivers – have fun and enjoy the summer but don’t drive if you’ve had a drink. It’s not worth the risk.”

This message was shared with festivalgoers waiting for ferries across to the Isle of Wight who were given drink-drive leaflets and information about the risks involved of drink and drug driving.

The Isle of Wight ferry terminals in Portsmouth, Southampton and Lymington all had staff involved in road safety from Hampshire Constabulary, Hampshire County Council and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service offering advice and engaging with motorists as they waited to board.

* If you suspect someone is driving while unfit to do so, report it immediately on 101 (or 999 if they are posing imminent danger) or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Alternatively, use the anonymous text service 80999, giving details of the vehicle, driver, location and time.