Dozens of motorists were arrested for drink driving during the festive period.

Officers stopped and breathalysed 164 drivers between December 1 and January 1, of which 50 were arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving following a positive result.

In addition, 326 people were stopped by tri-force police, who cover Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire.

Of these, 22 were arrested for a positive result and a further 17 were arrested for refusing to be breathalysed.

The operation was carried out as part of a campaign that was led by the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing unit.

Chief Inspector Steve O’Keeffe, Head of the BCH RPU, said: "The campaign is an opportunity for officers to engage with motorists about the dangers of drink driving. While we were pleased to see so many people out enjoying Christmas and New Year responsibly, there clearly remain some motorists who think it is acceptable to drive while under the influence. 

“Alcohol impairs your judgement and makes reactions slower, which significantly increases the chance of being involved in a collision. Our advice therefore is to always avoid alcohol if you know you will have to drive.”