A total of 130 drink drivers were arrested in the festive season in the county last year, according to police, who are about to start their run up to Christmas spot checks.

Drivers are being reminded not to risk their licence by drinking or using drugs then getting behind the wheel during the festive season.

A Wisbech motorist said on a Facebook discussion about safe driving: “I just got my licence back from a two year ban for drink driving, the following day 16 hours after drinking and I was still three times over.

“I felt fine and I bet a lot of people here have driven the next morning after a few drinks not realising they shouldn’t.“

The Cambridgeshire Police December Think! campaign says that although the numbers of people has reduced over recent years the Christmas period sees a spike in offences as more people are tempted to risk it.

Councillor Steve Criswell chairman of the Road Safety Partnership said: “Everyone likes to enjoy themselves at this time of the year however once we sit behind the wheel we take on the huge responsibility of safeguarding other road users, not just ourselves.

“Drink driving has huge and life changing impacts, both for the individuals involved and their friends and families.”

Chief Inspector Jane Aspin of the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit said: “Drink driving simply isn’t worth the risk and the consequences might not only ruin your Christmas but the rest of your life.

“To be safe motorists should avoid drinking alcoholic drinks when they are driving and if they do drink, ensure they wait a suitable amount of time before driving.

“Drinking before driving has life changing consequences. We would like to encourage everyone to report anyone they believe is drinking through our confidential hotline. You may just save a life.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Cllr Jason Ablewhite said: “I urge anyone planning on enjoying a night out in Cambridgeshire this Christmas to know their limit and stop well before any damage occurs.”

Key messages for motorists are:

• If you know a drink or drug driver call the confidential reporting line on 0800 032 0845.

• Download an app at http://morning-after.org.uk which will help calculate how long they need to wait before they are safe to drive.

• You could lose your license, face a fine, lose your job, face jail or not be able to pay your mortgage.

• Just because you have slept does not mean you are fit to drive – take care when driving the morning after.