More than 200 people were arrested during Kent Police's summer drink and drug drive campaign - up 30% from last year.

The initiative, which usually runs throughout the month of June, took place slightly later this year to coincide with the World Cup.

Between Thursday, June 14 and Sunday, July 15, officers arrested 224 motorists for driving while intoxicated.

Of those arrested, 182 were thought to be driving under the influence of alcohol, and 42 on suspicion of drug driving offences.

Last year, 171 people were arrested - 142 of whom were thought to be over the allowed alcohol limit, and 29 on suspicion of being unfit to drive through drugs.

The "month of action" is a national project, which takes place every year - once during summer and again near Christmas.

It sees officers proactively patrol high-risk locations, and this year resulted in 102 motorists being charged, 86 released pending further inquiries, and 36 being released without charge.

Sergeant Ben Brennan from Kent Police’s Roads Policing Unit said: "It’s important that motorists remember that the only safe option if you need to drive is not to drink alcohol or take drugs.

"If you choose to take the risk it could result a fine, disqualification from driving and in some cases a prison sentence.

"Ignoring the law is just not acceptable and with the proactive approach our officers take it’s not a question of if you will get caught but when.

"Whatever the time of year the message is always the same – don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs."