Christmas Will Never Be The Same Again
Motorists who choose to get behind the wheel of a car whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be targeted by a month long Christmas campaign across Wales.
All four Welsh forces, led by South Wales Police, will come together to educate, detect and prosecute those motorist who put themselves and others at risk.
Last year, nearly 600 people were arrested across Wales for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Assistant Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan, South Wales Police said:
“Each year Welsh forces come together to raise awareness, prevent and prosecute those that break the law by driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
“As Christmas is all about spending time with friends and family, our campaign focuses on showing the true impact either committing or falling victim to this crime can have on the communities of Wales.
“Since the improvements of roadside testing for alcohol and drugs, there is nowhere to hide for those that break the law. Police forces across Wales take a zero tolerance approach to drink/ drug driving 365 days of the year.
Susan Storch, Chair, Road Safety Wales said:
“Following years of education, enforcement and publicity, the vast majority of drivers have taken the ‘Don’t Drink and Drive’ message to heart and we thank everyone who continues to take this on board.
“Working with our partners in the Police, Road Safety Wales is reminding all drivers and riders of their responsibility to always drive sober and free from illegal drugs and to never accept a lift from someone they suspect has been drinking or taking drugs. Those who take over-the-counter or prescribed medication are encouraged to speak to their Doctor or Pharmacist about any effects this may have on their driving. Please enjoy the festive period and get home safely.”
The campaign, launched on the 1st December 2016 at the Orbit Business Centre, Merthyr Tydfil heard from the Angela Coen, mother to the late Arran Coen, who sadly lost his life in a road traffic accident.
Angela Coen said:
“Growing up Arran was a well-liked boy, he had many friends and people who loved him dearly. Throughout his life Arran excelled at a great many things, he had the potential of achieving anything he wanted to.
“When Arran chose to get behind the wheel of his car he didn’t consider the impact that one extra drink could have on his ability to keep control.
“After losing Arran, my life will never be the same again. I want people to truly understand the impact driving under the influence can have on family and the community. Don’t drink and drive.”
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