POLICE are conducting round-the-clock breath tests in the run up to Christmas and across the festive season as they launch their latest anti-drink-drive campaign.

And drivers who think using rural backroads will be safer may find themselves caught out as these areas, as well as key routes, are being targeted.

Officers will also be acting on information about possible offenders.

Code-named Op Attention,it runs alongside a national drink drive campaign by the National Police Chief’s Council.

Officers say they will catch dozens of offenders who’ll end up in custody, losing their licence and getting a criminal record.

The typical rise in the number of people who drink and drive at Christmas could be compounded by the recent reopening of the hospitality sector, officers fear.

National research also shows that the amount people drink has risen significantly during lockdown.

Traffic Sergeant Andy Morton said: “It’s fair to say 2020’s been a terrible year, and one that most people will want to put behind them. However, it’ll get even worse for those who are caught drink driving.

“We see how upset and remorseful some people are as they sit in custody – and that’s before their families find out or the courts take their licence, fine them and given them a criminal record.

“But we also see first-hand the horrendous injuries, fatalities and carnage drink drivers cause not only to themselves, but to innocent people.

“When you’ve had to pick up body parts from the carriageway and break devastating news to families, you have no sympathy for those who choose to drink and drive.

“My plea to drivers is look after your mates, be aware you may still be over the limit the morning after and never, ever ‘just chance it’. Don’t make 2020 even worse – don’t drink and drive!”

One hundred motorists were arrested in North Yorkshire during last year’s Christmas campaign, with some blowing more than three times the legal limit.