AN average of four people were arrested for drink or drug driving every day this month.

A total of 120 arrests were made as part of Avon and Somerset Police’s annual Operation Tonic, including four each on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

So far 71 drivers have been charged and bailed to appear before magistrates – if guilty, they could be fined up to £5,000, banned from driving for at least a year and possibly jailed, as well as finding it harder to get insurance and even losing their job.

This year’s total compares to 231 arrests in 2011 and 136 in 2012.

Road policing officers targeted ‘hot spots’ and responded to tip offs from the public during the month-long campaign.

A police spokesman said: “The operation has this year been targeting motorists who put their own lives and those of people around them at risk by driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.

“High visibility stop check operations and intelligence-led patrols have formed part of the festive operation.

“When vehicles are stopped they are also checked for road worthiness and checks made if they trigger the automatic number plate recognition system.

“Advice is provided by officers to those drivers who are not over the limit.

“Our key message to drivers ahead of the New Year festivities remains the same - don’t drink if you are driving; if you do intend to go out and drink, walk to the venue, use a taxi, public transport or nominate a non-drinking driver; remember, you could still be over the drink drive limit the following morning.”

Anyone with concerns about someone who may be drink driving should call police on 999 or text the word ‘drunk’ and details to 81819.