FIGURES have been released for Devon and Cornwall Police's Christmas drink driving campaign 2014.

Police officers administered a total of 1,766 breath tests, of which 156 were positive, refused or failed to provide — representing 9% of the total and is a decrease of 3.5% on last year's result.

Last year the figures were 167 positive, refused or failed to provide, from a total of 1,316 or 12.5% of the total.

The total number of positive breath tests following a collision was higher this year at 69 or 9% of the total (742) compared with 6% (21 out of 361) last year.

Inspector Richard Pryce, roads policing professional lead, said: 'The overall percentage of positive tests is lower which is encouraging.

'While any positive tests are disappointing, we hope this shows a good trend as more and more drivers take on board the message that it is simply not acceptable to drink and drive.

'The number of breath tests undertaken is up on last year together with the number of positive tests following collisions.

'This demonstrates a concerted effort by officers to clamp down on suspected drink drivers during the festive period.

'As well as the risk of serious injuries or even fatalities, it is important to make it clear that other results of drink driving can be life changing.

'These include losing your licence or even your liberty, hefty fines and even a combination of these leading to losing your livelihood.

'The results this year are encouraging with a lower percentage of positive results and more drink drivers caught, but there are still clearly some who demonstrate a reckless approach regarding their safety and the safety of their fellow road users.

'Catching drink drivers is a year-round priority for Devon and Cornwall Police and we will continue to crack down on drink and drug driving to actively contribute to making our roads safer.'