With the festive season about to take off, police officers in Wales are reminding people who are looking forward to a night out not to get behind the wheel after drinking or consuming drugs.

The four Welsh police forces – North Wales Police, Gwent Police, South Wales Police and Dyfed-Powys Police - are today launching their Christmas Anti-Drink and Drug Drive Campaign which aims to catch people who risk their life and the lives of others by getting behind the wheel while under the influence.

Dyfed-Powys Police Superintendent Clark Jones-John said the reason for the operation was to try and prevent the needless loss of life at the hands of irresponsible drivers who flout the law.

He added: “Once again, as the pandemic continues, this year has been difficult and we understand people may want to enjoy themselves but we are reminding them that getting behind the wheel while under the influence can have dire consequences.

“We’re not just talking about losing a licence, which often results in the loss of employment, driving under the influence leads to far too many serious and fatal collisions.

“Don’t be the person responsible for destroying a family this Christmas.”

The month-long operation against driving under the influence begins today, Wednesday, December 1st, when officers across the country will be using intelligence-led tactics and local knowledge of hotspots to detect people who are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs over the festive period.

ACC Mark Travis, from South Wales Police said: “As the festive season gets underway we are reminding drivers of the dangers and consequences of getting behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs.

“Officers from the Roads Policing Units, Safer Neighbourhood Teams and the Special Constabulary will be working 24 hours a day, seven days a week and anyone who is considering driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs should know that we will be out and about waiting for them.”

This year is likely to see the return of some office parties. With this in mind, officers are asking people to plan ahead, to think about what they may do and to be sure to arrange a taxi home.

“Our message is simple; if you are out and know you will be drinking, make sure you have plans for getting home safely without driving,” said ACC Travis.

“If you do have to drive, our advice is to avoid alcohol completely. The only safe limit is none.”

Anybody who has concerns about anybody they believe to be driving under the influence are asked to contact police on 101 (or 999 if they are posing an imminent danger) or alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.