DRUG users and abusers are being targeted in a fresh crackdown on dangerous driving.

While local police continue their round-the-clock fight against drink drivers, officers specially trained in drug recognition will also help screen suspects at the roadside.

The law makes no distinction between impairment due to illegal drugs and impairment due to medicinal drugs, whether prescribed or purchased over-the-counter.

The penalties are the same as for drink driving: disqualification for at least a year, a fine up to £5,000 and up to six months imprisonment. Traditionally the lead up to Christmas is always a time to focus on drink driving, but it is recognised that drivers disregard the law at other times throughout the year.

Over Christmas 2002 there was an increase in the number of drivers being arrested in the county: 78 compared to 62 in 2001. Police believe this proves that there is still an element of drivers who take the risk of not being caught for drink driving.

Inspector Brian Wood, Greater Manchester Police's Road Safety Officer, said: "In addition to drink drivers you will note that we are increasingly looking for people driving under the influence of drugs.

"Illegal drugs readily come to mind when we refer to drug driving but I stress that any drug, whether it has been legitimately obtained over the counter or whether it has been obtained quite legally on prescription, may impair driving.

"If in doubt, the public need to check with their doctor or chemist. Most medicines include an indication on the label but even if there was no indication on the label the key message is: if you are taking some form of drug and your driving is impaired, the onus is on the individual not to drive."