Police stop checks are now underway in a bid to reduce the number of people driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs over the festive period.

The December Think! Campaign will find Herts Police carrying out stop checks across the county throughout the month.

More than 130 drivers were arrested last year during the same period as the Christmas season typically sees a spike in drink driving. Motorists stand to lose their licence, face a fine and potentionally lost their job or receive a prison sentence.

Chief Insp Jane Aspin, of Beds, Cambs and Herts road policing unit, said: “We want to remind motorists that drink driving simply isn’t worth the risk and the consequences might not only ruin your Christmas but the rest of your life.

“To be safe motorists should avoid drinking alcoholic drinks when they are driving and if they do drink, ensure they wait a suitable amount of time before driving.

“Drinking before driving has life changing consequences and we would like to encourage everyone to report anyone they believe is drinking through our confidential hotline. You may just save a life.”

Drivers can also download an app which helps calculate when they are safe to drive after drinking the night before. Visit http://morning-after.org.uk.