Lancashire Police launch summer drink and drug drive campaign

In the last 12 months, more than 2,600 people have been arrested for drink or drug driving offences in Lancashire.

On average, that is 7 people every single day.

Lancashire Police are using intelligence to target repeat drink and drug drivers, as a part of Operation Virage.

The operation sees roads policing officers across Lancashire dedicate time and resources to tracking down and arresting some of the county's most prolific drink and drug drivers. 

Activity will be increased for the summer, as new funding secured by the Police and Crime Commissioner, enables more dedicated hours and specialist equipment to be devoted to the operation.

A multimedia campaign supporting Operation Virage has also been launched across Lancashire utilising Spotify and social media, amongst other digital channels to warn about the effects of drug driving, to encourage reporting and to signpost people for help through Talk to Frank.

When intelligence is reported to us, it undergoes rigorous checks to ensure its legitimacy, before being graded. This depends on several factors, such as the quantity or quality of intelligence coming into force and the severity of the offending behaviour, amongst many others.

The additional funding is helping to support the work already being done as part of Operation Virage, allowing officers to target even more drivers.

This means officers can intervene on troubling driving behaviour early, before it becomes more dangerous, offering road safety advice and signposting to support services for those with substance misuse issues. 

The force has partnered with the Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, alongside Lancashire's Combating Drugs Partnerships, to send a message to those thinking of drink or drug driving this Summertime. 

Supt Hassan Khan, Operations Manager of Lancashire Police’s Tactical Operations, said: “Our main aim is to keep Lancashire's roads safe, and a big part of this is reducing the number of people who choose to drive a vehicle whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Our officers carry out daily roadside drug and alcohol tests, and on average we arrest seven people a day for drink or drug driving. 

“We want everyone to enjoy their summer, but we urge people to be safe and know the law. If you plan to have a drink, you should order a taxi home, arrange a lift or have a designated driver in your group. 

“One in 20 fatal crashes in the UK are due to drug driving. If you know someone who drives under the influence, please do the right thing to protect them and others by reporting this”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, added: "Drink and drug driving are unacceptable and anyone who selfishly puts other road users' lives at risk should feel the full force of the law.

"Targeted operation like this are a great tool in making Lancashire's road safer and deterring drivers from getting behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs.

"Our message to drink and drug drivers is clear – get help or get caught. Don't be the reason for someone else or yourself becoming a casualty on our roads."

If you know of a drink and drug driver, you can report them 100% anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via our online portal. Your information could save a life.

If the person is currently driving whilst under the influence, always call 999.