MORE than 9,000 breath tests were carried out and nearly 200 drug wipes administered as part of a national crackdown on drink and drug driving.

The All Wales Campaign, initially led by Dyfed Powys Police, saw police forces from across Wales take part from June 10 to July 10.

Officers from Gwent Police carried out 1,004 breathalyser tests with 51 testing positive and 65 drug wipes were conducted, with 39 showing up positive.

The offence of drinking alcohol or taking drugs and driving is one of the 'fatal five' offences that can lead to death or serious injury on our roads.

Other offences include being careless while driving, speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, and driving while on a mobile phone.

Gwent Police Inspector Huw Jones said: “With the drug driving law and swab kits we now have an increased ability to catch drivers breaking the law and as a result make our roads safer.

"However it’s disappointing to see that, with both drink and drugs, people are still taking such risks behind the wheel.

"Our officers will continue to patrol the roads in Gwent on a daily basis and take positive action against offenders to make our roads safer for everyone.”

During the campaign a total of 9,532 breath tests were carried out with 306 being positive, refused or failed to provide.

Elsewhere 199 roadside tests for drugs were administered with 131 showing positive for banned substances.

Chairman of Road Safety Wales Susan Storch said: “We were clear in our messages throughout the campaign that drink or drug driving is not acceptable, and will not be tolerated.

"The police services also made effective use of the new legislation under Section 5a and made some significant arrests during the campaign period.

“Those that selfishly break the law are endangering themselves and, more importantly, other road users.

"Drink and drug driving ruins lives all year round and we will continue to work closely with the Police in reinforcing these messages throughout the year.”

Anyone with information about people drinking and driving should call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.