EIGHT people were arrested in the third week of the Christmas drink-drive crackdown.

The figures cover the period between Monday December 16 and Sunday December 22 and of those arrested five have been charged and are now facing a possible driving ban to start the New Year.

Roads Policing Inspector Kevin Roseblade said: “One person drink driving is one too many but these results are encouraging as the number is about half of what we have seen in the first two weeks.

“Particularly of note is the work by officers in Cheltenham last Friday (December 20) to try and detect anyone who had drunk the night before and who may have still been over the limit that morning.

"Over 300 cars were stopped and over 200 people breath tested. Thankfully no one was over the limit and no one was arrested.

"We hope we will see that outcome elsewhere as we continue to carry out roadside operations right across the county.
“Our key message this year is very simple – eat, think and be merry.”

Cllr Will Windsor-Clive, Cabinet member for fire at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “It is always disappointing when people drink and drive – putting their own and others’ safety at risk, as well as their livelihoods. But it is encouraging to see the figures are down for the last week and I hope this is a trend which continues as we enter Christmas week.”

Details of five charged with drinking driving offences this week:

Jeanette Dawn Small, 54 and of Cutsdean near Temple Guiting was arrested in Rye Close, Bourton on the Water on Tuesday December 17. She will appear before magistrates in Cheltenham on February 5.

Stephen John Cook, 61 and of Princess Elizabeth Way, Cheltenham was arrested at Cheltenham Police Station in connection with an incident in September on December 11. He will appear before magistrates in Cheltenham on February 5.

Christopher Graham Keightley, 39 and of Mitton Court in Tewkesbury was arrested on Oldbury Road in Tewkesbury on December 20. He will appear before magistrates in Stroud on February 6.

Vicky Boer, 41 and of Holst Grove, Badgeworth was arrested at her home address on December 22. She will appear at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court on February 6.

Oliver James Hooker, 27 and of Beechcroft Road, Longlevens was arrested on the A417 at Hartpury on December 22. He will appear before magistrates in Cheltenham on February 10.