DRINK drivers caught in the run-up to Christmas have numbered 16 so far, police statistics revealed today.Between 6am on December 18, and 6am Tuesday , officers stopped 330 drivers across the county, and asked them to take part in a breath test.

DRINK drivers caught in the run-up to Christmas have numbered 16 so far, police statistics revealed today.

Between 6am on December 18, and 6am Tuesday , officers stopped 330 drivers across the county, and asked them to take part in a breath test.

A total of 16 – 4.9 percent – failed the test and one person refused to take a test.

That is a significant reduction in the proportion of failures from the same period last year when 7.8 pc produced positive tests.

Chief inspector Alan Pawsey from Suffolk Police traffic unit was encouraged by the figures.

He said the message seemed to be getting through: "Suffolk Police run a drink drive campaign 365 days a year.

"The people of Suffolk can be assured that we are making every effort to get drivers whose reactions are adversely affected by drink and drugs, off our roads.

"We want everybody to get home safely this Christmas period.

"Our message is simple – if you have had drink or take drugs, and that includes prescription medication that carries a warning about driving, then don't drive."

He added: "Remember alcohol and drugs can still be in your body and impair your ability to drive a considerable time after they are consumed.

"If you think you can drink until 3am and drive at 8am, you could be in for a shock.

"This year we are appealing to people to take responsibility, to plan evenings out in advance and ensure that everyone gets home safely at the end of the night.

"People who choose to walk home after having drink, also need to be careful. "Use well lit roads with footpaths, wear reflective, light-coloured clothing, to ensure you can be seen, and walk facing oncoming traffic.

"All drivers need to be mindful of revellers walking home late at night, during the festive season."

The results for the whole festive period including New Year will be released on January 7.

In 2002 8.6pc of those stopped during the whole period, failed a breath test and in 2001 it was 6pc.