THE number of drivers arrested by police on suspicion of drink or drug driving in December was more than 25% higher than the same month the previous year.
Avon & Somerset police arrested a total of 262 drivers over the course of the month as part of an annual festive road safety campaign.
The number was up by 55, or 26.6%, on the 207 arrests made in December 2024, and was also higher than the 258 arrests in the same month in 2023 and 247 in December 2022.
The force had not produced a full breakdown of the areas where drivers were arrested, or the full age range, as the Voice went to print.
But a spokesperson said 30.2% of all drivers arrested (79 out of 262) were men aged between 35 and 44.
Men made up 84.7% of all arrests (222 out of 262).
Police said drink or drugs had been a factor in a quarter of the 32 fatal road collisions across the Avon and Somerset force area in 2025.
Police have urged people to call 999 when they know someone is currently out on the road, driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
They have also set up a web page at tinyurl.com/ycsuku57 where people can report drink-drivers online at any time of the year.
Inspector Matt Boiles said: “There is no safe way to drink and drive – not at Christmas, not on New Year’s Eve, not any day of the year.
“Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs can seriously impair your judgement, reaction times, and coordination, putting lives at risk.
“Don’t be tempted to take chances.”