FEWER people were caught drink-driving during the recent festive crackdown.

Police collared 75 drivers over the limit during December, compared to 86 in 2008.

This was despite the amount of Oxfordshire drivers tested by police increasing by 20 per cent from 1,104 in 2008 to 1,321.

Sgt Chris Appleby, of Thames Valley Police Roads Policing Department, said: “The results of this campaign have been very encouraging. We have carried out a great many more tests on drivers across the force area than in previous years and seen the number of positive tests fall considerably.

“There does, however, remain a minority who fail to get the message that it is totally unacceptable to drink and drive.

“Roadside breath tests are carried out throughout the year and not just at Christmas.

“If anyone is thinking of driving under the influence of alcohol they should think twice.

“If you know of anyone who drinks or takes drugs and drives, call police or call the anonymous Crimestoppers charity hotline 0800 555 111.”

Drink drivers face a year’s driving ban and six months jail or a fine of up to £5,000.