Police launch summer drink-drive campaign in Melton Mowbray

Officers were in Melton Mowbray yesterday to monitor drivers and offer advice on the dangers of speeding, drink and drug driving, using a mobile phone whilst driving and not wearing a seatbelt – the so-called FATAL4 motoring offences.

They were in the Wilton Road car park to launch Leicestershire Police’s summer drink-drug-driving campaign with the fear that more offences may be committed as people gather for the football in pubs and social events.

Ch Insp Jodie White, specialist support department at Leicestershire Police, said: “Many people will be looking forward to several weeks of international football, but we want to remind drivers to be sensible.

"If you know you’re going to be drinking, plan your transport home in advance.

"Consider being the designated driver and choose nonalcoholic drinks.

"Drink and drug driving typically increases during major sporting tournaments as people gather to watch the games.”

Government data shows that between 290 and 320 people are killed every year in collisions involving drivers over the legal alcohol limit.

Around one-in-five fatal road collisions involves a driver or rider impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Kate Garrigan, watch manager for community safety at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, added: “People who drink or take drugs - whether illicit substances or prescription medication taken without following the guidelines - place themselves, their loved ones, other road users and pedestrians at grave, avoidable risk.

"All too often, our crews deal with the devastating consequences of these selfish decisions when attending road traffic collisions.”

During the campaign event in Melton, police say they issued tickets to two drivers for using a mobile phone at the wheel, nine motorists were given tickets for not wearing a seatbelt and one person had their vehicle seized because the driver was not insured.

Pc Lucy Baxter, of Melton Police, posted on the force Facebook page: “These operations are about more than enforcement.

"We were joined by our Road Safety Team, who engaged with drivers to highlight the real dangers behind these behaviours and how quickly things can go wrong.

“We will be running further Fatal 4 operations in the near future, as traffic offences remain prevalent across the Melton Town beat.

"Our aim is to reduce risk, prevent harm, and keep our roads as safe as possible for everyone.

"All of these offences may seem small to some, but they are leading factors behind the most serious incidents we attend.

"Making safer choices behind the wheel could save your life — or someone else’s.”

Leicestershire Police advise anyone who sees someone who appears to be a drink or drug driver getting into a vehicle to drive away to note the registration number and their direction of travel and call police on 101.

You can also report it anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

The summer campaign lasts until Sunday July 19 – follow the Facebook page ‘LLRroadsafety’ for updates.