MERSEY Tunnels Police are stepping up their patrols as part of a Christmas campaign targeting people driving under the influence of drink or drugs.

Throughout the festive season, and into the New Year, Mersey Tunnels Police Officers are taking extra measures to discourage people from driving under the influence, including static drink/drug drive checkpoints and increased patrols within the Mersey Tunnels.

This activity aligns to the Liverpool City Region Road Safety Strategy and Merseyside Road Safety Partnership (MRSP) – Vision Zero for no more deaths and serious injuries on our roads by 2040.

The action is part of ‘Op Limit’, a nationwide campaign, coordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and National Roads Policing Operations and Intelligence (NRPOII).

Councillor Liam Robinson, portfolio holder for transport for Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, said: "The safety and security of tunnel users and staff is paramount, so this is an important operation.

"If you drive under the influence of drink or drugs, not only are you jeopardising yourself, you’re putting other road users at risk.

"This behaviour is not tolerated on any of our roads including the Mersey Tunnels and this initiative is one important way of helping to prevent deaths or serious incidents.

"There is still a misunderstanding that drink and drug driving is a night-time problem, this is not always the case.

"Too often people don’t take enough time to recover from the effects of overindulgence and are back in their vehicle the next morning.

"We’re asking everyone to take care and think about the recovery time needed before getting behind the wheel.

"Checkpoints will be running at different times throughout the festive period with a view of educating people on ways to stay safe while driving around the City Region."