ALMOST 100 motorists have been arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving following a police campaign to tackle a "summertime surge" of offenders.

Throughout June, North Yorkshire Police said they had arrested 90 motorists suspected of driving under the influence, on the county's roads.

Under the force's 'Operation Attention' police officers conducted roadside checks at key locations across North Yorkshire, as well as using intelligence about repeat offenders.

Traffic sergeant Andy Morton of North Yorkshire Police said: "Despite doing this job for many years, I’m still appalled when people think it’s okay to put lives at risk in this way. We see the carnage they cause and the devastation they leave behind.

“I’m sure any responsible road users will also be shocked by the fact that so many people still choose to drive after drinking or taking drugs.

Scarborough and Harrogate saw the highest number of arrests, with 23 and 18 motorists taken off the roads respectively. Three motorists were arrested in the Richmond district, along with five in Hambleton and 16 in City of York. 

Further arrests were made in Craven, Ryedale and Selby. 

Councillor Don Mackenzie of North Yorkshire County Council said: “Tragically, many people still choose to drink and drive. Every year in North Yorkshire there is 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."

Sgt Morton added: "That’s why we’re encouraging them to call us with information about people they suspect are driving under the influence by dialling 101 – it’s one call and one chance to save someone’s life.

“If you see someone about to drive while intoxicated, or drunk or drugged behind the wheel, call 999 immediately.”