A total of 20 motorists were charged with drink driving or driving under the influence of drugs during the first 10 days of December by Kent police officers.

The arrests were made across the county, with drivers stopped in locations including Ramsgate, Folkestone, Swanley, Maidstone, West Malling, Tunbridge Wells, Minster-on-Sea and Medway.

In December last year, 143 charges were issued for the same offences.

The new charges come as Kent Police supports a national campaign, which takes place each December to target motorists driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.

The force’s roads policing unit is carrying out patrols across the county to target motorists who they suspect are driving while impaired.

Provisional figures, up to November 26 this year, show that there have been 303 collisions in Kent which are suspected to have involved at least one impaired driver.

Last year, there were 375 collisions involving impaired drivers.

Although the latest government guidance on coronavirus limits the amount of social interactions that can be made, the festive period is known to be a time when people consume more alcohol.

Drivers are encouraged to remember that, even if they are not attending a pub, drinking at home can still leave you over the limit the next day.

Anyone who attends a celebration outside of their home is also encouraged to ensure they follow the government’s guidance and plan ahead.

Det Insp Lee Neiles, from Kent Police’s serious collision investigation unit, said: "Driving while impaired by drink or drugs is known to be one of the four most common causes of a serious or fatal collision – alongside failing to wear a seatbelt, speeding or using a mobile phone.

"Our officers are doing their bit to keep road users safe by carrying out proactive patrols across the county to identify and target motorists who pose an unnecessary and unacceptable danger to others.

"I would encourage all motorists to take personal responsibility for ensuring they do not drive while impaired.

"In addition to causing the death of an innocent road user and significant trauma to their family and loved ones, offending motorists risk an unlimited fine and a substantial driving ban.

"This could have an impact on your work and your ability to care for your family."

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Kent