AN annual campaign which aims to clampdown on drink and drug drivers over the festive period has been launched.

Officers will be out visibly more over the coming month targeting those who get behind the wheel while under the influence.

Roadside checkpoints will be in operation with drivers routinely asked to pull-over and provide breath and drugs tests.

The force have said that anybody found to be over the limit will 'face the full force of the law'.

Ch Insp Pat Worden of the Lancashire Police TacOps team, said: “We know that the majority of drivers follow the law and that it is only a small minority who choose to drink or drug-drive.

“However to those people we say this: driving while under the influence is both selfish and utterly reckless and the legal limit is there for a reason. No matter how well you believe you can drive under the influence, you are putting yourself and others in danger of serious harm or death and it is never, ever worth it.

“Likewise, if you know anyone that does drunk or drug drive, then please pass the information to us and we will act on it. You may save a life or prevent someone being seriously injured.

“Over the next month we will be out and about on the roads and will be stopping motorists at checkpoints right across the county doing alcohol and drug screening tests. We will not hesitate to prosecute anybody who is found to be over the legal limit for alcohol or drugs.

“We know people will want to enjoy a drink over Christmas but we want to make it clear we will be taking a zero tolerance approach to drink or drug-driving. Please take a moment to consider the consequences of getting behind the wheel while under the influence, not least that you could kill or seriously injure yourself or someone else."

Andrew Snowden, Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner also commented, sying officers are 'determined' to get offenders off the roads.

He said: "Alongside the unacceptable danger to your life and others, you are also risking losing your driving license, potentially your livelihood, having to go to court and potentially spending time behind bars.

“I am committed to getting tough on criminals and keeping people safe as I lead the fight against crime.”

Drivers risk up to six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a substantial driving ban if they are caught driving while above the legal limit. Anyone who causes a death while drink or drug driving faces up to 14 years’ imprisonment.