NEARLY forty motorists have been caught over the legal limit during Suffolk police's Christmas drink drive campaign.Since December 18, 728 people have been stopped, with 39 (five per cent) found to have too much alcohol in their system.

NEARLY forty motorists have been caught over the legal limit during Suffolk police's Christmas drink drive campaign.

Since December 18, 728 people have been stopped, with 39 (five per cent) found to have too much alcohol in their system.

At this stage last year, 806 motorists had been tested, with 60 (7.5 per cent) proving positive.

Chief inspector Alan Pawsey, of Suffolk police, said: "While it's encouraging the number of positive tests has fallen, these figures show there's still a significant proportion of people prepared to risk their lives and those of other road users.

"We'd like to remind revellers that alcohol can remain in the body for a considerable time after being consumed. You may still be over the limit even after a few hours' sleep."

The warning comes at a time when thousands of people across the county are taking part in New Year festivities.

Ch insp Pawsey said: "We'd like to take this opportunity to repeat our message, which is simply this: 'If you have a drink, don't drive'.

"We'd like to urge people to take responsibility for themselves and their friends, plan evenings out in advance and make sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the night."

The Evening Star is currently running its annual name and shame campaign.

As in previous years, our reporters and photographers have been covering the cases of motorists convicted of driving while over the legal limit.

Final figures for this year's police festive drink drive campaign are due to be released in early January.

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