POLICE have praised drivers for their sensible approach to drink driving over the festive period.

But the message is still clear - have None for the Road, because those breaking the law will still be targeted by police.

During Operation High Profile more than 30,000 motorists went through road checks and police administered 523 breath tests with just 84 people arrested for proving positive.

Chief Inspector Ian Bell, head of road safety, said: "This has been one of our best campaigns ever. Clearly many members of the motoring public took notice of our advice."

Police said the figures were a key factor in improved accident figures which showed there were just over 200 where someone was injured, compared with more than 500 similar incidents last year.

LANCASHIRE police has also announced a safer drivers course which has been running in Preston for 12 months is to be extended throughout Lancashire.

Targeted at offenders - who last year contributed to 9,000 injuries in the county - it aims to improve road standards and reduce accidents.

Anyone found guilty of certain driving offences can use it as an alternative to points on their licence and a fine.

The one-and-a-half day £100 course organised by the Lancashire County Council Road Safety Unit includes theory sessions and instructed driving.

Inspector Peter Stas of the motorway unit said: "Most drivers receive no instruction once they have passed the basic learner test. This is designed to re-educate and hopefully, in the long term, reduce accidents."

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