ONE hundred and twelve people have been arrested by Lancashire police during the first two weeks of the Constabulary's festive drink-drive crackdown.

As part of Operation Shepherd, hundreds of breath tests have been carried out on motorists across the county. They include routine tests on drivers involved in accidents as well as those who have been flagged down to take part at special checkpoints which have been set up at various locations.

Of the 112 people arrested so far, 23 were unfit through drink or drugs, 86 were over the limit for alcohol and three failed to provide a breath sample.

Supnt Richard Spedding said: "These figures are incredibly disappointing. Everybody is aware of the dangers of drink-driving, but there are still the reckless few who are prepared to gamble on others and their own lives.

"People must remember that even a small amount of drink will affect a person's ability to drive. There is simply no excuse for drink driving and it won't be tolerated. If you are convicted of drink-driving you could go to prison, face a heavy fine and be banned from driving. You could also loose your job and the cost of your car insurance will rocket. More seriously, if you should cause the death of someone whilst under the influence of drink or drugs you could be sent to prison for up to 10 years. I do not want there to be any spare places at a Christmas dinner table this year as a result of drink-driving."

Police will continue to conduct the checkpoints at different times and locations across the county throughout December along with targeting those believed to be drink driving.

"If you know of anyone who regularly drives under the influence of alcohol then I urge you either contact the Constabulary direct on 0845 1253545 or you can ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Operation Shepherd will run from 1 December 2007 to 6 January 2008.