HUNDREDS of motorists across the North-East have taken to the roads over the drink-drive limit this Christmas - despite a campaign warning of the effects of excessive alcohol.

Of 6,815 drivers breath-tested by police in Cleveland, Durham and Northumberland, between November 28 and January 2, 506 were over the limit. They now face bans and heavy fines.

The figures mean 14 drivers a day have been caught over the limit since the three police forces' joint campaign against drink-driving was launched.

Inspector Mick Bennet, head of Cleveland Police road policing unit, said the figures released yesterday meant too many people were still putting themselves and other road users' lives at risk.

"It is unacceptable and we will continue to put pressure on these people who feel they are above the law when it comes to drinking and driving," he said.

Superintendent Barry Peart, head of traffic with Durham Police, agreed: "There are still drivers showing no regard for themselves or others by continuing to drink and drive. Too many tragedies result from these thoughtless actions and we won't be happy until our drink-driving figure is down to zero."

Superintendent Steve Storey, of Northumbria Police, said the campaign had successfully targeted a hard core of drivers who take risks on the road.

"We believe the message about the risks of drink-driving is getting through to the vast majority of people," he said.

"Licensees tell us that sales of soft drinks have increased significantly and this, together with the designated driver scheme, is another encouraging sign that attitudes are changing."

Figures released by North Yorkshire Police yesterday showed that the number of drivers over the limit following a collision was down on last Christmas.

Of 352 drivers breath-tested after collisions between December 18 and January 2, 11 were either over the limit, refused to be tested or gave an inadequate sample.

During the same period last Christmas, 453 drivers were tested after collisions and 26 were over the limit, refused to be tested or gave an inadequate sample.