FOREST of Dean Police began its roadside checks on Sunday, December 7 as part of the annual drink and drug driving campaign ‘Operation Limit’.

Officers conducted a two hour stop checkpoint in Newent, stopping 35 vehicles in total, with no drivers found to be impaired. However one vehicle was seized due to no MOT and another due to no tax.

A Forest of Dean Neighbourhood Police spokesperson said: “Thank you to all the motorists who cooperated today. We’ll continue carrying out checks across the area to keep our roads safe throughout the festive season. Stay safe and never drive under the influence.”

Additionally, on Wednesday, December 10, PCSOs conducting foot patrols in Coleford encountered a car “smelling strongly of cannabis”. It was soon stopped by officers and the driver tested negative for drugs, while the vehicle’s occupants were searched. One of the passengers had a small amount of cannabis, and officers were able to deal with them at the roadside.

The news comes following last week’s story from The Forester regarding the start of the national campaign, which looks to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by drivers impaired by drink and/or drugs.

Motorists in the Forest of Dean can expect to see more of these types of roadside checks during the festive season.

Cllr Nick Evans, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner and Chair of the Road Safety Partnership said: “Keeping Gloucestershire’s roads safe is a shared responsibility, and this annual campaign is a vital reminder of the dangers posed by drink and drug driving.

“We urge everyone to plan ahead, make sensible arrangements, and help us protect our communities this festive season. Never get behind the wheel with drink or drugs in your system."

Police said if you are concerned someone is drink or drug driving, report it immediately by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.