ALMOST 10 per cent of motorists stopped and tested in June in Essex were driving under the influence of alcohol.

The county’s police force carried out a month-long crackdown, testing 40 people a day.

102 were over the limit.

A further 26 people were tested for drugs, after a new test was brought in, with ten people testing positive.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “As well as breathalysing drivers, the campaign saw officers use new drug testing kits to detect illegal drugs including cannabis and cocaine.

“It was the first time the kits have been used as part of an anti drink and drug driving campaign since the introduction of new legislation in March.”

Last year, more drivers were stopped and fewer tested positive for being above the legal drink drive limit.

Adam Pipe, casualty reduction manager for the county, said: “It is always very disappointing to see a number of drivers consider themselves to be above the law and continue to put the lives of other innocent road users at risk by getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

“The national summer campaign may have come to an end, but that doesn’t mean our efforts to take irresponsible drivers off the county’s roads will.

“We will continue to take a zero tolerance approach to people who drive under the influence. “ Mr Pipe added: “We still need the public to do their bit and speak up about people who regularly choose to get behind the wheel drunk or high on drugs.

“We’re asking them to take some responsibility and call us on 101 at any time of day or night.

“If you would rather not speak to police, please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

“No one will have to know you called and you won’t have to give your name.

“Information will be fed to my team and I can reassure residents that it will be acted upon.”

Ann Scott, eastern regional manager for Crimestoppers, said: “By telling us about someone who regularly drinks alcohol and drives you could be saving someone’s life.”