A 23-YEAR-OLD man was arrested within hours of the launch of the Christmas drink and drug-driving crackdown.

The Coleford man was detained on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs after being stopped in the town’s Gloucester Road in Coleford in the early hours of Wednesday, December 4.

It follows the recent introduction of the use of drug swipe kits at the roadside that can indicate the use of cocaine and cannabis.

A Gloucestershire Police spokesman said: “He failed a drugs swipe test, which gives an indication that cannabis or cocaine is in someone’s system.

“He has been released under investigation while we await blood test results.”

The arrest came the day after the force launched its annual crackdown with a sober message that this year’s campaign will be the most powerful yet.

A new set of measures are being used to help stop intoxicated drivers getting behind the wheel in the first place and to catch those who don’t heed the warnings.

Full police operations began last week and will continue throughout the festive season - but work to get the message out started way back in October - with officers visiting pubs to remind them of their responsibilities.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Martin Surl has also issued an open letter to licensees, bar staff and road users asking them to avoid alcohol and use alternative means of transport to get home safely.

A force spokesperson said: “Drivers can now expect to see more roadside police checks, both in urban and rural areas across the county. 

“A new task force of roads policing officers will be running proactive drink drive campaigns alongside the Special Constabulary, with the first week seeing vehicle stops in the Forest of Dean and elsewhere.

“A new police text number - 07860 009095 - will also give people the chance to report information discreetly about regular drink drivers or someone they suspect is likely to drink drive but hasn’t yet headed for their vehicle. 

“Detection of drug driving offences has also been improved by the use of drug swipe kits at the roadside that can indicate the use of cocaine and cannabis.”

The campaign is backed by Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) who are delivering hard-hitting talks about the impact of drink driving to students and at barracks during December, and showing a film highlighting why drink and drug driving is one of the ‘fatal four’ most common causes of road deaths.

Fire officers already make use of virtual reality headsets to help people understand the effect drink and drugs can have on the system when driving.

Chief Inspector Al Barby said: "The steps we are taking collectively this year are meant to ensure that the anti-drink and drug drive message reaches more people than ever before, but that we also increase the chances of stopping the stubborn minority who ignore it.

"The campaign artwork mirrors a recent Scottish campaign and says in a very effective way that having none for the road is the only safe option.

“We all know of the profound impact that driving after drinking or taking drugs can have on people, and so we will be working to ensure that those who ignore this advice will be targeted.

“It is important that those people understand the consequences of their actions”.

Mr Surl added: “I have made safe and social driving one of my priorities because more people lose their lives on our roads than anywhere else.

“And when you share the experiences of those who have killed someone or lost a loved one in this way, you realise what a terrible and senseless waste it is.

“While most people’s attitudes to drinking and driving have changed for the better, we still need campaigns like this to remind those who put their own selfish and irresponsible approaches first that adopting a zero approach to alcohol won’t ruin your Christmas, but it might save a life."

On average 3,000 people are killed or seriously injured each year in the UK in a drink-drive related collision.

In Gloucestershire in 2018, 39 drink or drug-drive collisions were recorded compared to 44 in 2017 and 62 in 2016, but local agencies are keen to continue the downward trend.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mark Astle said: “By drinking and driving, you risk your life, your passengers’ lives, and the lives of others on the road. 

“Any amount of alcohol affects your ability to drive. Drivers who drink alcohol or take drugs will have to face the consequences.”