NEARLY 180 drink drivers were caught by police during their Christmas blitz on boozed-up motorists across Devon and Cornwall, officers have revealed.

Some 1,974 breath tests were administered, with 177 either positive, refused or failed to provide during the festive break.

The nine per cent figure is the same rate recorded in last year’s campaign, when 156 fell foul out of 1,766.

The 2015 operation saw the introduction of screening drivers for drugs with an approved device. Eleven drug ‘wipes’ tests resulted in four positive readings.

Chief Insp Adrian Leisk said today: ‘We know that the presence of illegal drugs are a contributor to fatal and serious injury road traffic collisions, and the ability to arrest and prosecute impaired offenders will help us to keep the road using communities of Devon and Cornwall safer.’

He added:  ’A lot of good work is being done by us and our partners but any failed tests or positive tests are disappointing and show that some people still do not understand the real consequences of drinking-driving.

‘As well as the risk of serious injuries or death it there are other devastating effects of drink and drug driving. These include losing your licence or your liberty, hefty fines and even a combination of these leading to losing your livelihood and the respect of your friends and family and the wider public.

‘Catching drink-drivers is a year-round priority for Devon and Cornwall Police and we will continue to crack down on drink and drug driving to actively contribute to making our roads safer.’