Thousands of motorists were breath-tested across Kent in a recent campaign - leading to just 244 arrests.

Between December 1 2009 and January 1 this year there were 2,247 motorists breath tested, compared with 1,786 during the same period last year.

Of those tested 244 were arrested, compared with 319 last year.

Police were out in force in many areas of the county stopping drivers believed to be over the legal limit.

Inspector Paul Sellwood, from Kent Police’s road policing unit, said: "These figures show that Kent Police has been effective in enforcing the law and that the public are also listening to the message.

"But the end of the campaign definitely does not mean the end of police vigilance to catch those who continue to flout the law however and drink and drive.

"Kent Police takes a zero tolerance approach to drink and drug driving and Christmas is always one of the busiest times of the year for us.

"The consequences of dangerous, irresponsible and anti-social behaviour can be horrendous.

"On a personal level you or your family could be involved in a serious collision. You could end up in a wheelchair, kill yourself or someone else.

"Alternatively you risk going to jail, a criminal record, losing your job, a fine up to £5,000, mandatory ban, increase in insurance premiums and difficulty getting a visa when travelling to certain countries."

Kent safe driving factfile:

• Around two people are killed on Kent’s roads each week.
• Statistics show that one in six of those deaths is attributable to someone driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
• Don't drink/drug and drive - there is no safe limit
• If you are going out in a group designate a driver who will not drink alcohol
• Make alternative arrangements to get home such as a train or taxi
• Do not get into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking or taking drugs