A 24-YEAR-OLD woman stopped in Durrington on suspicion of drink-driving is among almost 40 people who have so far been arrested during a Christmas clampdown on the crime.

Don’t Risk It is the message for drivers this month, Wiltshire Police said, as it revealed dozens of people had been arrested for drink and drug driving offences since the Christmas operation began.

On December 1, 2024, the force launched the annual month-long campaign warning people to plan in advance if they intend to consume alcohol or illegal drugs over the festive season.

Patrols have been stepped up and 39 arrests were made in the first 17 days – including nine last weekend.

Among those to have been arrested was Ruvarashe Charuma, who was stopped by a marked police car in Larkhill Road, Durrington, on Friday, December 13, due to the poor manner of her driving.

Charuma, of Silver Street, Trowbridge, refused to provide an evidential specimen for analysis in custody and was subsequently charged. She has been released on bail.

Roads Policing Inspector Steve Jolly said: “As we approach Christmas, more people will be out drinking and unfortunately some will make the fateful decision to drive home drunk.

“We are urging these people to seriously consider the consequences of doing this. If you are caught, the best-case scenario is that you will lose your driving licence for a minimum of 12 months. At worst, you could kill yourself or someone else.

“It’s completely unacceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol or illegal drugs. Please think carefully about whether you are fit to drive – it’s simply not worth the risk.”