A total of 43 motorists in Wiltshire were arrested after driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the last week alone, Wiltshire Police confirm.

The force conducted a drink and drug driving initiative throughout last week as part of a national campaign led by the National Police Chief's Council. 

From August 23-29, 13 drivers were arrested for drug driving offences and 30 were arrested for drink driving offences in the county. 

The arrests were the result of a multitude of proactive stop checks by officers, reports from members of the public and collisions.

Police Sergeant Will Ayres from the road policing team said this latest focus has highlighted drink driving as a particular concern.

He explained: “During this summer’s campaign there has been a notable difference in offending with a much higher proportion of drivers arrested and investigated for drink driving offences compared with previous campaigns.

“I believe this is due to the relaxation in Covid restrictions, night time economy reopening and previous positive campaigns targeting drug drivers and habitual drug users meaning they are already disqualified from driving.

“Of the collisions where drivers were found to be either drink or drug driving, three people suffered serious injuries.

“This is a stark reminder of the dangers of drink and drug driving - just because the NPCC campaign is over it does not mean that officers will not be actively targeting these offences and I would urge the public to call in if they suspect a drink or drug driver.”