EMMERDALE actor Mark Charnock, who plays Marlon Dingle, has helped police and emergency services create a video showing the consequences of drink and drug-driving through a mock road traffic collision.

It is part of a Christmas campaign this year by York and North Yorkshire Road Safety Partnership which is asking people to ring 999 if they suspect someone drink or drug-driving.

In addition, from today, December 1, to January 1, 2023, North Yorkshire Police will be patrolling the county in marked and unmarked police vehicles.

Static roadside checks will also be in place to provide officers with the power to request a breath sample from any driver who is suspected to have committed a road traffic offence.

Police are also keen to remind road users that it’s not just about having a drink or taking drugs and getting straight into the car - you can also be over the limit the morning after.

During last year’s campaign – which ran from December 1, 2021, to January 1, 2022, there were 137 people arrested for drink or drug driving. From the 137 arrests, 120 were men and 17 were women. 72 people of the 137 were charged with an offence. 25 of the arrests were made following a road traffic collision.

Speaking about this year’s campaign Superintendent Emma Aldred, head of Specialist Operations at North Yorkshire Police commented:

“The Christmas drink and drug drive campaign is a priority for the force each year. We make no apology for stopping motorists who are either driving when over the drink drive limit or under the influence of drugs.

“December is anticipated to be a busy period for us with the usual Christmas parties as well as the world cup.

“I would urge people who are out socialising to call out anyone who is about to drive or who is driving when under the influence of drink or drugs.

“If it’s happening there and then, please call us on 999. One call could be all it takes to save a life”.

Group manager for North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Tony Peel added: “Year-on-year lives are lost or changed forever due to the actions of others.

“There are still people who continue to put not only their life at risk but also that of others through inconsiderate irresponsible behaviours of driving under the influence of drink and, or drugs."

The video can be seen at: https://bit.ly/3XYmEeu