POLICE arrested 13 motorists last week as the annual crackdown on drink-driving picked up pace. The total number for the month up to December 14 now stands at 27.

Last week's arrests were made in Tetbury, Cheltenham, Cirencester, Tewkesbury and Gloucester. There were none in the Forest.

Police stress the need for motorists to take more responsibility ahead of Christmas celebrations.

Garry Handley, of the Road Safety Partnership, said: "If you are getting ready to go to a Christmas party or celebration please make sure that you plan how you are going to get home first. Don't leave it too late to book your taxi or make your arrangements and don't leave your return journey to chance."

He asked motorists to remember they could also be over the legal limit if they drove on the morning following a party.

"Take the bus, don't take the risk. It can take up to one hour to rid the system of one unit of alcohol and nothing will speed up this process," said Mr Handley.