A CRACKDOWN on drink and drug driving has been launched by police forces in the run up to the festive season.

Both Cumbria and Lancashire constabularies have been spreading the message that they will be on the look out for intoxicated drivers this Christmas while encouraging people to plan safe journeys home to avoid falling foul of the law.

The call comes as officers have seen an increase in the number of people they are stopping on suspicion of drink-driving.

Cumbria Police's Chief Inspector Andy Wilkinson said: “It’s a message we push throughout the year and particularly in the lead up to Christmas - but we’re concerned it’s not getting through. Just last weekend we saw 18 drivers arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.

“Our roads policing officers regularly see the consequence. For those we catch, those consequences can mean the loss of jobs and driving licenses.

“However, they may be the fortunate ones. Some people who drink or take drugs and get behind the wheel will, sadly, not make it home in one piece.”

Officers are now also regularly looking to catch people who have taken drugs before getting behind the wheel with tests for cannabis and cocaine at the roadside, and screenings for other drugs at the police station.

Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said, "Christmas and the holidays are a time for people getting together and enjoying themselves but the message is clear, don't let drink or drug driving ruin your life or anyone else's. The police will be out and about carrying out targeted checks to keep our roads safe this winter.

"Research last year suggested that one in five people might consider driving even though they know they could be over the limit. People who choose to get behind the wheel while under the influence, whether at night or even the morning after, put themselves and everyone around them in danger. Everyone should be able to enjoy themselves this Christmas but we also want you to be responsible and be safe."

People caught drink driving face a minimum 12-month driving ban and a possible six-month prison sentence as well as a criminal record.