Over 9,000 arrested in Xmas drink/drive campaign

British police arrested more than 9,000 motorists during a month-long campaign to catch drunk drivers over the Christmas period, according to figures released today.

Officers breathalysed 183,397 drivers -- 25,000 more than during the previous year's campaign -- and held 9,148 people on suspicion of being over the limit during operations by all 43 police forces in England and Wales.

Despite the increase in the number of people tested, the percentage proving positive was just under five percent, about the same as in 2007. The figures showed those under 25 who were tested were more likely to be over the legal limit.

Chief Constable Mick Giannasi, who is in charge of road policing at the Association of Chief Police Officers, said it still meant some drivers were not getting the message.

"What these figures show is that if you are driving a car while under the influence, you are more likely than ever before to be caught and disqualified," he said.

"While it is too early to draw firm conclusions, the fact that there were 6 percent less collisions this year than last year could also indicate a link between increased testing and the risk of death and injury."

The Department for Transport spent 1.6 million pounds on its drink/drive Christmas campaign and Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatick said motorists who drank were more likely than ever to be caught.

"This isn't just a message for Christmas, it's for every day of the year," he said. "In 2007, 460 people died and families across Britain were devastated -- don't do it."