WILTSHIRE Constabulary teamed up with police forces across Europe to carry out a 24-hour campaign against drink-drivers.

The Christmas drink-drive campaign was launched nationally on November 23 with the message "Drinking and driving is one Christmas tradition we can do without THINK!"

Last weekend officers from the Chippenham division stopped 84 drivers in the area to carry out breath-tests.

Wiltshire Constabulary's force road safety officer Sgt Dave Melvin explained the importance of the weekend's international campaign.

"The messages regarding the dangers of drink-driving are understood and heeded by many but ignored by some, and seven drivers were arrested during this short campaign," he said.

"In the run-up to the Christmas and New Year celebrations, this should serve as a warning to all those prepared to ignore the advice and the dangers."

Wiltshire police officers carried out nearly 7,000 roadside breath tests last year which resulted in more than 1,000 arrests.

Sgt Melvin hopes that this year's campaign will get the message across to the public.

He said: "The Christmas and new year period is an important celebration for families. We do not want these festive celebrations marred by deaths and injuries on the roads.

"We are asking all concerned to take a responsible attitude. Please do not drink and drive."