CUMBRIA Police is cracking down on motorists found to be driving under the influence of drink and drugs this Christmas.

Officers have set up targeted road side checks at busy town centre night spots to target offenders throughout the festive period when the number of drink drivers tends to rise.

Last year, police arrested 90 people for drink driving offences over the festive period.

Anyone caught drink or drug driving can expect a 12 month driving ban, criminal record, substantial fine, higher insurance premiums and potential loss of job.

Police have warned that road conditions are already treacherous across the county following severe flooding and driving while over the limit increases the risks even further.

Sergeant Paul Brown said: “It is vitally important that we get the message across that driving under the influence of drink and drugs will not be tolerated in Cumbria.

“It is up to all of us to send the message that drink and drug driving is socially unacceptable in Cumbria.”

Officers will also be making use of a bluetooth device that sends an anti-drink driving message to a large number of mobile phones simultaneously, near to busy town centre nightspots and restaurants across the county.

It is hoped that this will remind revellers to take a taxi or catch a lift with a friend after enjoying a night out.

If you suspect someone is drink driving, or is planning to, then call police on 0845 33 00 247.