PEOPLE are being urged to report anyone they think may be drink driving to police this Christmas.

Dorset Police has launched its Festive Feedback Christmas drink and drug-drive campaign, urging the reporting of motorists who are endangering others on the road.

The initiative runs from today (December 2) until Wednesday, January 1.

Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the ‘fatal five’ causes of serious injury or fatal road traffic collisions on the roads in Dorset, police said.

And, in support of the national drink and drug drive Operation Limit campaign, Dorset Police is encouraging people to report a drink or drug driver.

Each time a report is made, officers will follow up with a call updating the informant about what police action was taken.

Meanwhile, the month will also see officers carrying out intelligence-led checks on motorists, as well as raising awareness of the dangers of driving while under the influence.

The Dorset Police campaign runs until January 1

Inspector Joe Wheable, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Anecdotally, we hear that people are hesitant to report a drink or drug driver as they do not believe anything will be done about it.

“We want to dispel this theory as part of our ‘Festive Feedback’ drink or drug drive campaign and will be providing a call back direct to the informant at a later date to show our appreciation and to provide an update on what has happened.

“If you report someone driving who is under the influence of drink or drugs and therefore posing a risk to themselves and other road users, the information will be assessed and units will be deployed to intercept the vehicle to assess their impairment.

“We would also encourage reports with general information about someone who is suspected of driving while under the influence – this information is invaluable intelligence to us.

“Alcohol and drugs impact many of the functions necessary for safe driving and increase the risk of being involved in a road traffic collision. We all need to work together to keep our roads safe and by reporting a driver, you could prevent a collision occurring in your community.

“We will be out in force this December targeting anyone flouting the law and thinking they can endanger other road users with no consequence – this will not be tolerated.”

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Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Dorset, David Sidwick, said: “There is never any excuse for getting behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs. That’s why I’ve made road safety a priority in my Police and Crime Plan and am working with Dorset Police to ensure they use all tools at their disposal to keep dangerous drivers off our roads.

“I wholeheartedly support this year’s campaign and am pleased the Force will be providing feedback, so members of the public are informed about the actions taken as a result of their report.

“Intelligence from the community is crucial for officers to identify and find motorists that endanger others, so they can be removed from Dorset’s roads. Updating callers on the outcome of their reports will enhance public confidence and demonstrate our commitment to tackling these reckless offences.

“I urge all road users to think carefully about the consequences of their actions not just this festive season but all year round. Drink and drug driving ruins lives; don’t take the risk.”

Anyone who suspects someone has been drinking or has taken drugs and is about to drive should call 999 and provide the make and model of the vehicle, registration number and direction of travel.