Fall in drink drive figures during World Cup period
Motorists in County Durham and Darlington have been praised by police for taking on board the anti-drink drive message in the World Cup period.
During June, officers carried out 1,420 breath tests, of which 66 were positive.
This was fewer than the 71 during the same period in 2009, when only 617 motorists were tested.
A Durham Police spokesman said he was "heartened" by the results, but the campaign would continue.
Acting Ch Insp Ken Cook said: "Throughout the rest of the summer we will be conducting mass roadside breath testing sessions across the whole force area, involving all the 90 operational officers who perform road policing duties.
"One of the key aims will be to deter those who think they can get away with driving while still being affected by what they had the night before.
"Choosing to drive while under the influence of drink or drugs can have tragic consequences that can last a lifetime."