Dozens of drink drivers have been arrested following the start of the police’s summer crackdown.

Officers in Sussex launched the operation to coincide with the football World Cup, fearing that revellers will take the risk of driving when they are still over the limit.

Since the launch last week, 42 arrests were made, and 25 have been charged ready to appear in court.

Chief Inspector Warren Franklin said: “With the World Cup the number of football fans drinking in pubs and bars or at home naturally increases, and that’s fine. What’s not fine is driving when you’re over the limit.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s only a short drive home or you’ve only had a couple – we’ve heard every excuse in the book, but ultimately there is no acceptable excuse to drive while under the influence of drink or drugs.

"By all means enjoy yourself and take in the atmosphere of the World Cup, but don’t let it compromise the safety of you or anyone else on the roads."

The operation ends on Sunday, July 15.