A TOTAL of 61 drivers were arrested in a week for drink and/or drug driving by Avon and Somerset Police as part of a national policing operation to cut fatal and serious road traffic collisions (RTCs).

The figure for August 21 to 27 was 20 per cent up on the same week last year, despite police warnings there is no safe way to drive under the influence.

Drink driving accounted for 40 of the offences, drug driving 21.

Patrols were carried out by roads policing, neighbourhood officers and special constables, while the public phoned or went online to report offenders.

One incident included reports of a van being driven erratically on the M5. When stopped, the driver, who appeared to be on his mobile phone, failed a breathalyser test.

A 12-week-old cocker spaniel puppy in the vehicle was taken into the care of a vet overnight while his owner was in custody.

The week-long operation resulted in several other road related and criminal offences being detected, including speeding, driving without a licence or insurance, illegal drugs possession and going equipped to steal.

In 2021, a third of RTCs in Avon and Somerset had a drink and/or drug factor and involved 12 deaths.

Chief Inspector Rob Cheeseman, head of road policing and road safety, said: "In a single week, 61 drivers have been taken off the road before they could cause harm through drink or drug driving.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal, it’s a reckless and dangerous choice that puts lives at risk.

"The consequences of such decisions can be catastrophic, causing irreversible harm and heartache to families and loved ones.

“As we head into the autumn, we are not easing up on our campaign against drink or drug drivers – keeping our roads safe is our priority every day of the year.

“I am grateful for the support of the general public who are helping us to target offenders by sharing information when they suspect drink or drug driving is happening."

Drivers caught over the limit risk up to six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and substantial driving ban.

Causing death by careless driving while under the influence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

During the week-long operation, drivers in the 35-44 age group accounted for 20 arrests; 25-34-year-olds 19; and under-25s 15 arrests; 83 per cent of those arrested were male.

Report drink/drug drivers at www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report or call 101 or 999 if someone is currently driving under the influence. Reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.