A summer drink drive campaign has been launched, including on the Isle of Wight.

From today, for a fortnight, police officers will be out in force across Hampshire, Thames Valley and the Island.

Those behind the operation are asking us how we are getting home from parties, barbecues and days at the beach, where alcohol has been consumed.

The advice is to pre-book a taxi, use public transport, or have a designated driver.

What to do if someone is driving after drinking or taking drugs on the Isle of Wight

  • We are told to call 999 in an emergency, or 101 with information, if we know of anyone who is drink or drug driving.
  • Alternatively, report it anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Hampshire Constabulary said: "Please plan your journeys this summer and make sure a day in the sun doesn't turn into a night in a cell, or worse.”

The force says alcohol and drugs stop you being able to drive safely, including your ability to react to situations.

Drink and drug drivers are at increased danger of being killed or seriously injured on our roads, the force said.

Chief Inspector Chris Spellerberg, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: "Operations like this one are vitally important to bring the message home – this is all about saving lives and reducing harm on our roads.

"The consequences of driving while impaired are so impactive, too many people have lost their lives or been seriously injured as a result of drink and drug drivers.""Another thing we want to highlight is you may still be over the limit the next day, as it can take hours for alcohol and drugs to leave your system.

"Even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system has the ability to effect the way you drive, increasing the risk of serious harm to yourself and other innocent road users.