A POLICE campaign is warning drivers to make sure a day in the sun doesn’t end up being a night in a cell.

From today, police officers will be increasing their focus on those driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs, during a two-week campaign.

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Chief Inspector Chris Spellerberg said: “The consequences of driving while impaired are so impactive, too many people have lost their lives or been seriously injured as a result of drink and drug drivers.

“We are urging people to plan how they will be getting home from parties, barbecues and days at the beach in advance if you will be drinking.

“Pre-book a taxi, use public transport, or have a designated driver so nobody gets behind the wheel when they shouldn’t.

“Another thing we want to highlight is you may still be over the limit the next day, as it can take hours for alcohol and drugs to leave your system.

“Even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system has the ability to effect the way you drive, increasing the risk of serious harm to yourself and other innocent road users.

“Please plan your journeys this summer and make sure a day in the sun doesn’t turn into a night in a cell, or worse.

“If you know of anyone who is drink or drug driving call 999 in an emergency, 101 with information or report via Crimestoppers.”

The campaign is being run by Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Constabulary’s Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit.

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This story was written by Liam Rice, he joined the team in 2019 as a multimedia reporter.

Liam covers politics, travel and transport. He occasionally covers Oxford United.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Liam.rice@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter @OxMailLiamRice