MORE than 600 people were found driving while under the influence of alcohol or other, illegal drugs by police in Scotland over the festive period.

The data, released by the force on Friday, covers the period from December 1, 2021 to January 3, 2022.

The annual campaign this year saw 2965 roadside tests conducted.

Police said that overall, 628 drivers were detected for drink or drug driving offences.

The campaign was “intelligence-led”, with police targeting drivers who had been reported to them as potentially dangerous by colleagues, friends or family.

The government website says that a conviction for driving while under the influence of drugs will result in a minimum one-year driving ban, between three and 11 penalty points, a fine of up to £5000 and/or up to 6 months in prison, and a criminal record.

It says that a person’s driving licence will show that they have been convicted of drug driving for 11 years.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Williams said: “It is really disappointing to see that some people are still willing to take the risk of driving after consuming alcohol or drugs.

"Our campaign was intelligence-led, with a number of drivers reported to us by colleagues, friends or family. Please continue to alert us to concerning driving behaviour as drink/drug driving remains a priority for us throughout the year.

“Everyone has a part to play in reducing road casualties and your information helps our officers to act quickly to stop drivers who are selfishly putting lives at risk by driving after consuming alcohol or drugs.”