Crimestoppers received more than 150 calls about drink-drivers in Essex & Suffolk last year

Part of a Crimestoppers anti-drink drive campaign poster (Image: Archant)

The charity released the figures as it begins this year’s anti-drink drive campaign.

It is calling on people to report suspected drink-drivers – anonymously if they wish – so they can be investigated by police. There is a focus this year on those who regularly drink and drive.

Drink-driving calls are the second most reported crime type to Crimestoppers nationally, behind drugs offences.

Over the past year 111 calls were made in Essex, resulting in nine positive actions and five arrests. In Suffolk there were 44 calls, leading to one investigation and one arrest.

Roger Critchell, Crimestoppers’ director of operations, said: “Too many people lost their lives last year due to drink-drive incidents. But there are still people out there who regularly drink-drive and refuse to change their behaviour.

“We want to make the roads a safer place for everyone and we would urge you to give information to Crimestoppers anonymously about anyone who is regularly drink driving.

“Crimestoppers never asks for your name or personal details, we cannot trace calls or track information given online and we do not record our calls. You will not have to give a statement to police or go to court.

“We don’t want to know who you are, just what you know. By taking action you could be helping to save a life – whether it’s the driver or an innocent victim.”

The campaign is being supported by the Association of Chief Police Officers and THINK! the Department for Transport’s dedicated road safety website.

To report those who regularly drink-drive contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the online secure form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. If you see someone trying to drive whilst drunk call 999 as this may require urgent police action.