THE start of the month today (Tuesday) marks the launch of Herts Constabulary’s annual month-long crackdown on drink and drug driving over the festive season.

The campaign aims to inform motorists of the consequences of drinking or taking drugs and then getting behind the wheel.

“This is an issue we take very seriously in Hertfordshire,” said chief inspector Donna Pierce from the road policing strategic unit. “Last year’s campaign saw an increase in those arrested for driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs - anyone tempted to do so this year can rest assured they will be targeted by officers in the same way.”

Advice this year includes using a designated driver and/or public transport, drinking soft drinks and not even having one alcoholic drink - as police say a person cannot measure if they are over the limit or not.

A positive breath test could face you with a minimum of a 12-month disqualification, as well as a fine and/or imprisonment.

Officers will be on the lookout for any suspicious driving, will stop and check anyone suspected of committing a driving offence, and will carry out tests at every road collision.