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Encouraging results for drug-driving campaign

Brighton & Hove's first anti drug-driving campaign is being hailed a success.

The city's drug & alcohol action and road safety teams, and Sussex Police joined forces to launch a crackdown on drug-driving over the festive season.

Posters went up in 100 pubs and clubs around the city centre in the run-up to Christmas, warning people of the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs. Adverts were also broadcast on local radio, and newspaper, television and radio coverage helped to raise awareness of the campaign.

The message appears to have been received by motorists.

During four special roadside checks carried out during December a total of 1,997 cars were stopped by police. Five arrests were made for drink driving and one stolen car was discovered - but no arrests were made for drug-driving. These checks, specifically focusing on drug-driving, were in addition to drink-driving checks carried out by police across the city.

The campaign was launched because of concern that motorists, particularly young drivers under 25, were ignoring the risks of driving under the influence of drugs.

In a survey, run by the drug & alcohol action team as part of the campaign, 9% of the 1,047 respondents admitted driving under the influence of drugs at some point in their lives.

Inspector Jim Bartlett, from Brighton & Hove's road policing department, said: "We have had positive feedback about the campaign and I am encouraged by the results of the roadside checks."

For further information contact Sue Bishop on 01273 291035.