Police arrest 35 motorists in first five days of Christmas crackdown

This comes just days after Surrey and Sussex Police issued a plea to all road users not to drive under the influence of drink or drugs this festive season – or at any other time of the year.

It also follows the announcement that the number of officers capable of testing for drink and drug-driving in Sussex is now higher than ever.

Inspector Stewart Goodwin, of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “It’s extremely disappointing that so many people continue to ignore our advice, which is issued for their own safety.

“One of the most concerning aspects of the campaign so far is the number of the arrests which have been as a result of crashes.

“Clearly, some of these drivers were in no fit state to be on the roads whatsoever.

“However, it also goes to show that we have a zero tolerance approach to drink and drug-driving, and that we are committed to catching criminals.