SURREY and Sussex Police are cracking down on drink and drug driving offences as part of Operation Dragonfly, to prevent collisions and save lives on the roads across the two counties.

The campaign is being run jointly by Surrey Police and Sussex Police alongside Sussex Safer Roads Partnership, Drive Smart in Surrey and the independent charity Crimestoppers.

During the campaign which continues until July 10, officers out on patrol will be actively looking for driving offences and behaviour behind the wheel and they will be “naming and shaming” motorists who break the law.

Police made 110 arrests in Surrey as part of last year’s initiative in June 2015, compared with 91 the previous summer. The 2015 figures included 65 arrests following a positive breath test and 20 more after a positive drugs test.

Insp Alan Nicholls, of Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “The initiative will see patrols carrying out checks on motorists in a bid to detect and deter drink and drug-drivers.

“This is not only a summer-led campaign, drivers should be aware that drink and drug driving enforcement carries on throughout the year.

“We will continue to target resources at those dangerous individual drivers who put themselves and others at risk by being under the influence of drink or drugs. If you are caught you are most likely going to lose your licence, which could affect your job, increase your insurance premiums or in the worst of cases go to prison for killing someone which will be on your conscience for the rest of your life.

“A lot of people like to have a drink when the sun is out, whether they are on holiday, having a barbecue, enjoying the Euro 2016 football tournament or just relaxing with friends. And while we encourage everyone to enjoy themselves and have fun in the sun, we also want them to act responsibly.

“If you’re driving to an event or a venue, think about your journey home and plan ahead. Book a licensed cab, take public transport or get a lift with someone who hasn’t been drinking or taking drugs. Please don’t be tempted to get behind the wheel and drive yourself, even if you think you’re fine.

“There is a thin line between being under and over the limit, and that’s why we encourage people to drink or drive - not both, it’s not worth the risk.

“Whether you suspect another road user is under the influence, you witness someone getting behind the wheel after drinking, or you are in a vehicle with someone who should not be driving, please report it.

This can be done discreetly and could help to save lives.”

Teams will respond to tip-offs from the public if they see someone they know who has been drinking getting into a car to drive. Officers will also act on any other intelligence.

• Call 999 if you suspect someone is about to drive under the influence or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 to leave information about someone you suspect of commiting the offences.