POLICE say they are “bitterly disappointed” to see a 21 per cent rise in the number of drink-driving arrests.

Officers launched a Christmas crackdown, across Sussex and this year 240 people were arrested on suspicion of drink and drug driving, up from 195 the previous year.

The campaign runs from December 1 to January 1 each year, and so far 29 have been convicted in court, while 81 have been charged with the offences.

The remaining 130 have been released under investigation or released without charge.

Chief Inspector Andy Gooch from the Roads Policing Unit said: “It is bitterly disappointing to see so many people arrested on suspicion of drink or drug-driving in such a short period of time.

“Of course we want people to have fun and enjoy the festivities, but don’t let that be at the expense of risking your life – and others’ – on our roads.

“The risks of such actions are well documented, yet despite our repeated warnings, there will always be a minority of people who make the conscious decision to get behind the wheel having consumed alcohol or drugs.”

He said that while the number of arrests has gone up, the number of reports of suspected drink driving from the public has also increased, with people now able to send a text message to police which makes it easier to report the crime.

Chief Insp Gooch said all reports are taken seriously, and thanked officers and police staff for raising awareness of the dangers of drink driving.

He added: “Drink and drug-driving destroys lives. It is one of the four major contributory factors of serious injury and fatal collisions in the UK.

“In Sussex alone in 2017, a total of 78 people were killed or seriously injured as a result of a collision involving a drink-driver. That’s 78 too many.

“Please, think before you consider driving while under the influence – your next journey could be your last.”

To report suspected drink drivers test 65999 or visit the Operation Crackdown website.