Hampshire cops failed to cut the number of drink drivers despite launching a high profile winter crackdown.
The annual campaign saw Hampshire Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit breathalyse 3,984 motorists across the county.
From December 1, 2010 to January 3, 2011, a total of 247 drivers provided positive breath tests or refused to take one.
This is an increase on the year before, where 3,374 drivers were stopped but only 204 returned positive tests.
Across both years, six per cent of motorists stopped were driving over the limit.
A total of 50 Field Impairment Tests were carried out on drivers suspected of driving under the influence of drugs, compared with 60 last year.
In December the force launched its campaign urging motorists to “think before having that drink” and “not to be a mug and drive after taking drugs”.
And they set up a text message service letting residents report anyone they suspect to be driving under the influence.
“Disappointingly, the message doesn’t seem to have hit home with all drivers," said Inspector John Snook from Hampshire Constabulary Road Policing Unit.
“While we are a little disappointed that the number of people driving under the influence has not been reduced this year, we continue to reinforce the message that driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs puts you and other road users in danger.”
The campaign saw 600 more drivers stopped compared to 2009, and 70 per cent of those arrested were charged.
In the north and east operational command unit, which includes Basingstoke borough and Hart district, officers arrested 58 drivers and charged 41.
In 2009-10 cops arrested 51 motorists and charged 30.
Inspector Snook said: “This sort of criminal behaviour will not be tolerated in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and offenders should realise that the punishments are tough if you are caught – you could be fined, banned from driving or even sent to jail.
“Alcohol, for example, makes it difficult to judge distances, while cannabis can slow your reaction times and cocaine makes you more likely to take risks.
“Combine any of these with driving and the results can be lethal.”
