POLICE in Surrey have reported a "disappointing" number of arrests in their month-long drink and drug-driving crackdown.

And of the 154 drivers arrested on suspicion of being behind the wheel during the road-safety push from December 1 to January 1, 73 were charged.

More than 600 vehicles were stopped in the annual drive to cut down on accidents involving drink and drugs on the county’s roads, with 449 drivers breath tested at the roadside and 49 given a drugs test.

Chief Inspector Andy Gooch, of the Surrey and Sussex roads policing unit, said: “It is bitterly disappointing to see so many people arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving in such a short period of time. Of course we want people to have fun and enjoy the festivities, but don’t let that be at the expense of risking your life – and those of others – on our roads.

“The risks of such actions are well documented, yet despite our repeated warnings there will always be a minority of people who make the conscious decision to get behind the wheel having consumed alcohol or drugs."

Chief Insp Gooch continued: “While the number of arrests is an increase on the previous two years, it is encouraging to receive reports of suspected drink or drug-driving from members of the public. Our officers can’t be everywhere all the time and we appreciate the public’s assistance in helping us detect potential offenders.

“We take all reports of this nature extremely seriously and will respond to them as quickly as possible to achieve the two main aims of this operation – to keep all road users safe and to bring to justice those who break the law."

And he added: “I’d also like to thank our staff and officers who work tirelessly to raise awareness of the dangers of drink and drug driving, and to crackdown on drink and drug drivers 365 days a year.

"We have two dedicated campaigns at peak times of the year – during summer and at Christmas – however, we will still actively pursue offenders all year round as part of our routine policing.

“Drink and drug-driving destroys lives, and it is one of the four major contributory factors of serious injury and fatal collisions in the UK.

“Please, think before you consider driving while under the influence. Your next journey could be your last.”

Anyone caught drink or drug driving faces a minimum 12-month disqualification, an unlimited fine, or jail. Anyone causing death by dangerous driving while over the legal limit faces up to 14 years in prison.

Chief Insp Gooch warned: "Drink or drive - never both!"