A CRACK down on drivers who drink or take drugs is planned by the police following a spate of arrests.

Eight people were stopped and arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving last weekend in Bangor, Rhos-on-Sea, Colwyn Bay, Bethesda, Llangefni, Corwen and Llandudno. The drug drive arrests were made after some tested positive for cannabis or cocaine at the roadside.

Inspector Gareth Jones from the North Wales Police roads policing unit said: “Only a few days after we launched our Summer Anti Drink and Drug Drive Campaign, we are having to issue a warning to people regarding the dangers of drink or drug driving.

“Despite our repeated messages people are still being reckless and risking their own lives and the lives of other road users by choosing to take to the roads whilst under the influence.”

Between January 1 and May 31 this year North Wales Police made 352 drink drive and 304 drug drive arrests across the region.

Inspector Jones added: “Driving with excess alcohol or under the influence of drugs is not just a criminal offence but also completely unacceptable. We will continue to target those breaking the law as part of daily policing.”

One example was a 28-year-old woman from Llangefni who has been charged with drink driving after being arrested during the early hours of Sunday morning after failing the roadside breath test. She was spotted in the town driving without any lights and was subsequently stopped by officers. She will appear before Caernarfon Magistrates in July.

Anyone who has information relating to driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is asked to contact North Wales Police on 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always dial 999.