HUNDREDS of Welsh motorists were caught driving while over the limit during the Christmas period in a nationwide police operation.

More than 4,000 people in South Wales were breathalysed during the All Wales Winter Anti Drink/Drug Driving Campaign which operated in forces throughout Wales.

Dyfed-Powys Police carried out 8378 breath tests with 164 either positive, refused or failed while South Wales Police tested 4409 motorists and saw 205 positive, refused or failed.

During the campaign, 26 out of 99 motorists that were arrested for drug offences were in South Wales and 17 in Dyfed-Powys.

The campaign, which was launched by Gwent Police on December 1, concluded on New Year’s Day.

During the initiative, police across Wales tested 22,811 motorists.

Inspector Steve Davies, of South Wales Police said: “We will continue to use all available intelligence and technology to target those minority of drivers who still believe that it is acceptable to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs.

“We would like to thank the public of South Wales for their assistance by providing us with information in relation to drink drivers.

“Statistics speak for themselves, and it is clear that after consuming alcohol or drugs, the chances of you being involved in a collision increase dramatically.

“We will continue to work with our partners and communities to ensure that drink and drug driving is viewed as a totally unacceptable practice.”

Chair of Road Safety Wales Susan Storch added: “Driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs is unacceptable and anyone caught faces a minimum one year driving ban, an unlimited fine and even a prison sentence.

“Every year, families have to deal with the devastating effects of losing a loved one because of a small minority who selfishly choose to drink or take drugs and then drive – something which is entirely avoidable.

“We’d like to thank partners and members of the public who continue to support us by spreading the Anti Drink Drug Driving message and in particular the emergency services who continue to work tirelessly keeping us safe on the roads in Wales.”