POLICE launch their month-long drink and drug drive campaign on June 1, to reduce the risk posed by motorists who drive "under the influence".

Officers will be out in force across Merseyside carrying out roadside checks, targeting those drivers they suspect of having drunk or taken drugs.

In the campaign last June, 3443 drivers were stopped and breathalysed with 123 drivers being arrested for being over the limit or failing to provide a specimen.

Twenty five impairment tests were carried out and seven drivers arrested for driving whilst unfit through drugs.

This year, police are hoping to see signs that the road-going public are heeding their advice about drink and drug driving.

Chief Inspector John Hogan said: "The better weather and lighter evenings mean more people decide to visit their 'local' for a few drinks with friends and family.

"Our advice is - leave the car at home. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your driving by impairing your judgement and slowing down your reactions.

"We want people to relax, enjoy the summer and use buses, taxis or designate a driver rather than drive home after a couple of beers and put themselves, their passengers and other road users in jeopardy.

"Also, home-poured drinks tend to be larger than those served in pubs, leading to a higher level of alcohol consumption and a longer period of time for the alcohol to be eliminated.

"Many people can still be over the limit the following morning when they drive to work. If in any doubt, use public transport".

During the Christmas 2012 campaign, 2two per cent of drivers were arrested following a breathalyser test. For younger drivers (those aged between 17-24 years) it was four per cent.

Chief Inspector Hogan added: "The total number of drivers arrested represents a very small minority of drivers in Merseyside.

"Nevertheless, its concerning that younger drivers are twice as likely to fail the breathalyser test than any other age group.

"As well as enforcement, our officers regularly attend at schools and colleges across Merseyside to educate students about alcohol and drugs and to promote the ENGAGE driving scheme".

So far this year, 33 drivers have been arrested after being unable to satisfactorily complete a drug impairment test.

Sgt Paul Mountford said: "In Merseyside, we now have over 400 specially trained officers who can spot the signs of drug use/misuse in drivers and gather evidence to remove these drivers from our roads."

Cannabis is the most commonly used drug among those drivers arrested and has a similar effect on driving as alcohol, affecting judgement of speed and distance and causing drowsiness and inattention.

Sgt Mountford added: " If we suspect you have taken drugs, or you commit an offence whilst driving or are involved in a collision, then you will be required to spend approximately 15 minutes with the officer, completing an impairment test.

"It can be done at the roadside or at a police station, at the officer's discretion. Once arrested, the driver will be examined by a doctor and may then be required to provide a blood or urine specimen".