POLICE are tackling a 'summertime surge' of drink drivers as 90 motorists have been arrested in North Yorkshire this month.

Officers have been checking drivers around the clock and acting on intelligence about repeat offenders as part of their summer campaign to crackdown on drink driving.

Fourteen people were arrested in the first weekend alone and so far, just under half of the 90 arrested during the campaign have been charged and given court dates.

Investigations are ongoing around many of the other cases, which may involve drug tests being analysed or further evidence gathered before a driver is charged.

Traffic Sergeant Andy Morton 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.

“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.”

As part of the campaign, the police are working with other organisations including North Yorkshire County Council as part of the 95Alive partnership.

Events are being held across the county to educate members of the public and reinforce prevention messages.

The campaign, which is called Operation Attention, runs throughout June and police are conducting roadside checks at locations throughout North Yorkshire.

County Councillor Don Mackenzie, North Yorkshire’s executive member for road safety, 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."