More drug than drink drivers caught behind the wheel at Christmas

More drivers in Cumbria were found to be positive for taking cocaine and cannabis, than drinking alcohol before getting behind the wheel over the Christmas period.

Cumbria Police gave 64 drivers roadside drugs wipe tests between the beginning of December and New Year's Day, which tests a person's saliva.

Nearly 20 drivers failed the tests, with 13 having taken cannabis and 6 testing positive for cocaine.

During this time, 12 out of the 235 drivers tested were found to be under the influence of alcohol.

Our reporter Robin Davies demonstrates how a drugs wipe test works:

Chief Inspector Andy Wilkinson says he hopes the low number of drink drivers reflects the fact that the offence is completely unacceptable:

Anyone caught drug driving can face a minimum of a 12-month driving ban, as well as a criminal record, an unlimited fine, and up to six months in prison.

Other consequences can include the loss of employment, loss of independence and increase in car insurance costs.

Cumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner says that he hopes the message is clear, that the police aim to take drug drivers off the road: