NORTH Wales Police is urging motorists to think of the consequences following ‘concerning’ figures over driving under the influence.

In just seven days (January 1-January 8), officers have responded to seven positive drink and drug driving jobs, which Support Sgt Gill Lehrle says is very concerning.

The South Flintshire policing team Sgt told the Leader: “Just in the past week we have had seven drink and drug driving jobs which is very concerning as it seems to have fallen outside the Christmas campaign.

“Is it because people think there is less risk of being stopped?

“We would reassure the public that we are out there, we are stopping cars and acting on intelligence. It’s not something we will let drop; we take it very seriously.

“Seven in a week is quite a lot and it’s not just in one area, it’s throughout the whole of Flintshire South. We would encourage people not to do it.”

Sgt Lehrle added: “Arrange transport, hand your keys over if you are tempted to drive – anything that can save a family having to receive a knock from us.

“If anyone is aware of anyone doing it, they should report it to us, and they can do so anonymously.

“I don’t know why people do it. There has been so much publicity about it but what we see when we do stop people is them saying ‘oh I was just popping to’ as though they didn’t anticipate making a long journey.

“They may not be aware of the impact alcohol still has on your system the following day, they think they can get up for work, not realising they are still over the limit.”

Anyone with information or concerns can contact North Wales Police via 101 or the live webchat service.

Sgt Lehrle added: “People shouldn’t take too seriously the fact they can have one pint and be fine. It’s different for every person and their ability to absorb alcohol.

“Everyone is different and for the sake of a phone call to get someone to pick you up, it’s really not worth the consequences of a potentially fatal accident.

“The repercussions are not only for the family of the victim; people don’t think how it will affect their life if they lose their license. The likelihood is that they lose their job which can then cause family problems.

“Over the years we have seen how things can escalate people choose to drink and drive.”