NEARLY 60 people have been banned from driving after failing a roadside test for drugs using a new device.

One of the 59 people tested positive on two consecutive days and several have failed up to three tests, say Gwent Police.

The DrugWipe can test a saliva sample for drugs such as cannabis and cocaine within as little as eight minutes.

A positive test is indicated by the appearance of red lines on the device, similar to a pregnancy test.

If the test gives a positive reading officers will take the motorist to a police station for a blood test, which will be used in any prosecution.

Magistrates have handed down driving bans of between 12 months and five years for drug-driving.

Thirty five people are awaiting test results from the laboratory and 26 have yet to receive a date for a court appearance.

Men between the ages of 17 and 25 are most likely to fail the test with most testing positive for cannabis.

Inspector Matthew Havard, of Gwent Police, said: "These results are giving us a more accurate picture of the extent of drug driving.

"Those who get behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs not only put their own lives and passengers at risk, but also those of innocent pedestrians and other motorists.

"Don’t drink and drive. Don’t take drugs and drive.

"Driving is a privilege and not a right. We will stop you. Think about what that would mean for you."

A conviction for drug-driving carries a minimum one-year driving ban, an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison and your licence will also show you’ve been convicted of drug driving - this will last for 11 years.NOTE: This story was updated on April 28 to indicate that the DrugWipe works after eight minutes, not three minutes as originally stated by Gwent Police.