In common with other police forces in Scotland, Tayside Police will be looking to detect anyone who flouts the law and drives whilst under the influence of drink or drugs during the Summer Drink/Drugs Driving Campaign, which runs from Monday, July 14 to Monday, July 28.

Campaigns such as this have received high levels of support from the public, which is testimony to the public's justifiable intolerance of those people who choose to break the law and drive with excess alcohol or drugs in their system.

The behaviour of this minority is rightly seen by the majority as being irresponsible and criminally negligent.

About half of those caught by police for driving under the influence of drink or drugs during last year's summer campaign and the festive campaign more recently were as a direct result of calls from the public.

During last year's summer campaign, 24 drivers were arrested for drink driving offences in Tayside, the vast majority (19) of those being men. More than 90% of those drivers were under the age of 55, and more than a third were under the age of 25.

Chief Inspector Sandy Bowman, head of road policing in Tayside commented:

"The volume of calls we receive from the public throughout the year in respect of drink and drug driver's heartens me greatly, as they often lead to the removal of someone who through their actions represents a risk to every other road user.

"Furthermore, they invariably lead to the loss of a licence for that irresponsible driver. I would give every encouragement to any member of the public to get in touch with us if they know of someone who is driving or who is about to drive while under the influence."

The aim of campaigns such as this is to highlight the very real risks to all road users which are posed by drink and drug drivers. No one should be in any doubt that it is far from safe to drive after consuming drink or drugs as driver reactions and responses often fall well short of those of a sober person.

Chief Inspector Bowman added:

"Tayside Police, as with other Scottish Forces, is committed to reducing casualties on our roads and notice of this campaign serves as a timely reminder to those attending T in the Park this weekend.

"Many campers will be leaving Balado on Monday - the day the campaign begins - for the journey home. I would ask them not to spoil what will hopefully have been a great weekend for them and make sure that they are fit to drive home safely.

"It takes time for alcohol to leave the system and drivers must allow adequate time to make sure they are fit and safe to drive. Please, make it a safe T in the Park."

Weather permitting, people will also be hoping to take advantage of some sunnier summer days to enjoy outdoor events, social functions and barbecues. Anyone who is driving to such an event should not drink. Don't take a chance on generous home measures or the various strengths of lager and beer. The best advice is to appoint a designated driver who can stick to soft drinks. Don't Risk It!

Everyone should be aware of the consequences of being caught for drink/drug driving. Anyone in any doubt is reminded that it can lead to a fine, disqualification or imprisonment. What's more, it can even lead to someone losing their job, their income, their home and possibly being shunned by their family and friends.

There is also the significant impact that their actions have on other people, including any victims of the drink/drug driver as well families and friends who lives can be and often are irreversibly changed.

Chief Inspector Bowman said: "Anyone who drives under the influence of drink or drugs and is arrested can expect to be brought before the courts to face the consequences of their actions. Do not underestimate the seriousness of the situation, it will profoundly affect your life and many of the things you take for granted in your everyday life. You will have to explain you actions to the courts - how will you explain them to your family?"

Tayside Police will fully utilise their powers to require breath tests under the law and those involved in road traffic accidents, committing moving traffic offences or suspected of having consumed alcohol will be breath tested.

Any member of the public who wishes to report a drink or drug driver should contact Tayside Police on 0845 600 5705, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or if the circumstances are urgent via the 999 system. Your call may save someone's life!