DYFED-POWYS Police carried out more than 8,000 breath tests during the All Wales Winter Anti Drink and Drug Driving campaign.

All Welsh forces took part in the campaign, which saw Dyfed-Powys Police carry out 8204 breath tests with 140 being positive.

In Gwent a total of 2,203 breath tests were carried out, with 42 being positive. North Wales Police officers tested 15,627 drivers, with 76 being positive, and South Wales Police administered 4684 tests with 230 positive results. A total of 488 positive drivers in Wales.

The campaign was launched with support from drink-drive victim Dr Mark Boulcott, who lost his wife and he was left disabled by a drink-driver.

Throughout the month-long campaign 30,718 drivers throughout Wales were breath tested between December 1 and January 1.

Speaking on behalf of the Welsh forces, Deputy Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police, and ACPO All Wales lead on Roads Policing Carl Langley said: "It is disappointing that 488 drivers throughout Wales chose to risk their own lives, and the lives of others during the campaign.

“We were clear in our messages throughout the campaign that drink or drug driving is not acceptable, and will not be tolerated. But those that chose to break the law and endanger themselves and other road users arrogantly were in the minority, and we thank the public that showed support for the campaign and were happy to co-operate.

"Drink driving ruins lives all year round, and our efforts to combat it continue throughout the year. We are asking the public in Wales to help us take these people off our roads, and report anyone you suspect of drink or drug driving.”

Chair of Road Safety Wales Susan Storch said, “Drink and/or taking drugs and driving is dangerous. Drivers should be under no illusion that if they get behind the wheel while under the influence they not only risk losing their licence, getting a fine and even a prison sentence but they are putting the lives of others at risk by doing so.

“We commend the efforts of our partners in the Police Service during the Winter Campaign as part of our continued efforts to drive home the message of ‘Drink or Drive’ not both.”

If you have information relating to someone you think is driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please contact Dyfed-Powys Police on 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always dial 999.