EIGHTEEN suspected drink and drug drivers have been arrested in just one weekend, police have revealed.

Over a two-day period beginning on Friday, May 31 and Sunday, June 2, patrolling police breathalysed and drug-tested those travelling in North Yorkshire.

Amongst those arrested, 14 men and four women were detained.

Andy Morton of North Yorkshire Police said: "This is an exceptionally high number of arrests, compared to 11 in the same period last year.

"I’m very disappointed at the significant increase in the number of arrests as it demonstrates a blatant lack of regard by individuals for their own safety and that of other road users.”

Out of those suspected of drink or drug driving, four were arrested in Hambleton and Richmondshire, three in Scarborough and Ryedale, six in Harrogate and Craven and five in York and Selby.

Councillor Don Mackenzie, executive member for access and road safety at North Yorkshire County Council, said: “As we have seen from that weekend, many people still choose to drink and drive. "Every year in North Yorkshire there are an average of seven people killed and 120 injured in collisions involving a driver impaired by alcohol.

“The message is simple, if you are planning to drink, don’t drive and if you are planning to drive, don’t drink. There is no safe limit."

As part of the arrests, the emergency services and local authorities across North Yorkshire, have been working under the '95 Alive' partnership, which educates road users and deters repeat offenders.

Cllr Mackenzie added: "Colleagues in the 95 Alive partnership including the County Council and City of York Council will be holding public engagement events throughout June and July to remind people how reckless it is to drink and drive and how long it takes to be safe to drive after drinking.

"For example, just one pint of larger or one glass of wine needs at least three hours before driving. Stay fit to drive, don’t drink and drive.”

Police said additional patrols on North Yorkshire's roads would 'get intoxicated motorists' off the roads. Under 'Operation Attention', the force said 'around-the-clock' enforcement activities would be taking place throughout June.

  • Anyone who suspects drink driving is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, or dial the emergency number, 999 if an offence is ongoing.