THE public are being reminded of the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs this Christmas, as part of a new campaign by Cheshire’s Road Safety Group.

The ‘Who’s taking you home?’ campaign - which coincides with the National Police Chiefs Council’s month-long operation - highlights to the public the ways they can get home safely after enjoying festive celebrations.

It also shows the very real consequences people could face if they choose to get behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs.

The campaign was launched at Barons Quay in Northwich, on Thursday, November 21, with a number of emergency vehicles - and the suggested alternate travel options - on display, giving the public a stark reminder to think about their actions this Christmas and an opportunity to speak to road safety specialists.

Throughout December the group will continue to actively engage with the public, raising awareness of the consequences of drink and drug driving with police officers enforcing the law against anyone caught under the influence.

(Image: Cheshire Police)

David Boyer, Chair of the Cheshire Road Safety Group and Director of Environment and Transport at Warrington Borough Council, said:

“This campaign is designed to get the public to think about their actions before getting behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Do you want to be taken home safely by a taxi or spend the night in a police cell – or even worse – end up in hospital, or not return home at all?

“Plan your journey home before you go out, chose a designated driver who stays on the soft drinks and doesn’t take drugs, use the bus, walk, or pre-book a taxi so you can get home safely. Think – who do you want to take you home?”

In 2023 more than 2,300 people were arrested for either drink or drug driving – just over 10% of those arrests occurred throughout the Christmas period.

John Forshaw, Chief Inspector for Cheshire Constabulary’s Roads and Crime Unit said:

“People are well aware that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is incredibly dangerous, yet thousands of motorists selfishly decide to do it regardless.

“It is so important that road users understand the seriousness of their actions and the consequences that drink or drug driving can have, not only for themselves, but for other road users too. We want you to have a great time celebrating Christmas, but please remember alcohol and drugs can take longer to leave your system than you may realise - you may still be over the limit the next day.

“Rest assured officers will be out morning, noon, and night every day - in marked and unmarked vehicles - stopping and testing anyone they believe to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You might not see them, but they will see you – and if you selfishly put other road users lives at risk, then we will take action.”