Police are urging football fans to plan their journeys home and think twice before getting behind the wheel as England prepare for their FIFA World Cup semi-final.
Police have arrested 39 motorists on suspicion of drink or drug driving since the launch of Gloucestershire Constabulary’s annual summer enforcement campaign.
With England taking on Argentina in the FIFA World Cup semi-final on Wednesday evening, officers are reminding supporters to celebrate responsibly and avoid driving after consuming alcohol or drugs.
The campaign, which runs until 31 July, is being delivered by Gloucestershire Constabulary alongside Gloucestershire County Council, Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner through the Gloucestershire Road Safety Partnership.
Officers are warning motorists that alcohol can remain in the bloodstream long after drinking has stopped, meaning drivers may still be over the legal limit the following morning.
Of the 39 arrests made so far, 18 were on suspicion of drink driving, 17 on suspicion of drug driving and four for being drunk in charge of a vehicle.
Superintendent Jessica Loxley-Clark, from Specialist Operations, said: “I would like to thank the motorists who have followed advice and not driven after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
“It is disappointing that our warnings around the dangers of drink and drug driving are not getting through to everyone. However, I’d like to thank all of the officers, PCSOs and Special Constables who have worked tirelessly over recent weeks to make the operation possible.”
Police are urging fans not only to plan how they will get home after the match but also to consider how they will travel the following morning, as alcohol may still leave them over the legal limit.
Drivers caught under the influence of alcohol or drugs face severe penalties, including a driving ban, substantial fines and possible imprisonment. Those who cause a fatal collision while impaired could face a life sentence.
Anyone who suspects someone is driving, or intends to drive, while under the influence of drink or drugs is urged to contact police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers.
