Almost 200 people were arrested in December across Kent on suspicion of drink- and drug-driving – more than in previous years, according to police figures.

Every year in the run-up to Christmas Kent Police runs a targeted drink-driving campaign.

Throughout December 2015, 191 arrests were made. To date 123 of those have resulted in a charge or summons, and some people remain on bail.

In comparison, over the same period in 2014 there were 170 arrests, and in 2013 there were 183 arrests.

But in 2015 the driving under the influence of drugs offences are included in the statistics, as well as alcohol. According to police, that is likely to explain the higher figure, as opposed to a surge in the number of drink-drivers.

Insp Sam Pearson said: “Our message all year round, but especially at Christmas time, is that it is not safe to get behind the wheel of a vehicle when you have had alcohol.

“It puts many people at risk; the driver, other motorists, and pedestrians as well. During this campaign a significant number of people have been identified as driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and they will now have to go to court and face the consequences.

“Many police officers will have attended fatal collisions on the county’s roads during their careers, which have been attributed to alcohol consumption. They are tragic and unnecessary losses, and we will continue to educate and enforce drink-drive laws to prevent such incidents.”