A CRACKDOWN on drink and drug-taking drivers will begin this weekend.

Dorset Police has today officially launched its summer campaign warning motorists not to risk it.

Increased patrols will begin from Sunday and will continue until Thursday, July 31 and has been extended for the first time to include the FIFA World Cup.

Anyone charged with a drink or drug driving-related offence during the campaign will have their name and court appearance details released to the media. Custody images of those convicted could also be released to the media.

Inspector Matt Butler, from Dorset Police’s Traffic Unit, said: “Every year we warn people of the dangers of drink driving but some still choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, putting themselves and the lives of others at risk.

“During our summer campaign anyone who chooses to have a blatant disregard for the law by drinking and driving will not only face a fine, be disqualified from driving and have a criminal record – they risk having their name and photograph released to the media.

“I have seen far too many lives lost on the roads due to drink driving. Research has shown that even one drink can impair the ability to drive so please don’t get behind the wheel after drinking any alcohol at all.

“We want everyone in Dorset to enjoy the summer months and the football World Cup but we also want people to remain safe. Risking people’s lives because you wanted to have a drink and then drive will simply not be tolerated.”

Dorset Police is warning motorists that throughout the campaign there will be an increase in traffic patrols and roadside checks.

Every driver who is involved in a collision during this period will be breath tested, irrespective of whether they are suspected of drink driving or not.

If someone is caught drink driving they will face a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record, up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.

The Force will also use information submitted by the public to target suspected offenders of drink and drug driving throughout the campaign.

Insp Matt Butler added: “If a member of the public suspects someone is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they should dial 999 immediately and report the details to the police so that we can intercept that vehicle.”

Dorset Police will be taking to Twitter to remind motorists of the drink and drug drive campaign and to inform the public how many drivers have been charged each day. Follow @dorsetpolice and look out for #DPSummerDrinkDrive.

If you suspect someone is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, dial 999 immediately so police can intercept or call 101 with non-urgent information.