Motorists are being warned not to risk driving while under the influence of drink or drugs as police launch a Christmas crackdown on the offences.

This is the first festive campaign when drivers can face roadside drugs tests, after new drug-drive laws came into force in October.

In addition, latest figures show that drivers in East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire and Inverclyde are the second most likely to be caught drink-driving, at 4.1 per cent of those for whom a breath test was requested.

Police are keen to highlight the criminal and personal consequences of being found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol or with drugs in your system.

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Superintendent Louise Blakelock, Police Scotland’s deputy head of road policing, said: “As we move into the festive party season, we are reminding motorists of the devastating consequences driving with alcohol or drugs in their system can have.

“New roadside testing for drugs was introduced on October 21 and, disappointingly, we have seen nearly 100 people provide positive tests in the first four weeks.

“Our festive campaign started on December 1 and we will have dedicated resources on patrol, targeting motorists who choose to take the risk of taking drugs and driving or drinking and driving.

“I am urging people to plan ahead during the party season. Think about how you’re going to get home safely and don’t forget about the impact alcohol can still have the morning after.”

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The new law introduced drug-drive limits and a zero tolerance approach to the eight drugs most associated with illegal use, including cannabis, heroin and cocaine.

Police can now carry out testing using mouth swabs for any motorist they suspect of drug-driving or who has been involved in an accident or stopped for a traffic offence.