A CRACKDOWN on drink driving saw almost 200 motorists charged with offences in just one month.

Around 3,400 people were asked to provide a voluntary breath test as Cleveland and Durham police officers carried out mass screenings and roadside stop checks earlier this month.

Their latest drink driving campaign, which ran from June until July 14, led to 193 drivers being charged with offences relating to drink and drug driving or failing to provide information.

Inspector Jonathan Malcolm of the Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit, said: “We made it absolutely clear to drivers that we would be stepping up our efforts and we warned people against the dangers of drink and drug driving.

"Unfortunately, there are still a significant number of people who seem to think that they can take risks with their own lives as well as other peoples.

“A number of those caught were tested in the morning, when alcohol was still in their body. Even just one drink can affect your reactions as a driver, which is why the only safe amount is none at all.

“Those people identified through our campaign as drink or drug drivers will now face the consequences of their actions.

“Our mass screenings were well received by the public and most were happy to engage with us. We will continue to carry out these operations throughout the year to ensure that our roads are as safe as they possibly can be.”