Suffolk’s police chief has hailed the drink-driving limit for saving thousands of lives in the last 50 years.

Crime commissioner, Tim Passmore also took the 50th anniversary of the roadside breath test as an opportunity to remind drivers who still break the law that their “cavalier attitude to safety is completely unacceptable”.

Offenders face an unlimited fine, up to six months’ jail and disqualification for at least a year.

Mr Passmore, said: “I am absolutely sure that, over the past 50 years, the breathalyser and subsequent campaigns have saved thousands of lives.

“It beggars belief that, despite the obvious dangers, too many drivers still take to the road under the influence of drink, but I hope the message is getting through.

Roads policing chief inspector, Kris Barnard said driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remained one of the ‘fatal four’ main causes of road death, along with speed, not wearing a seat belt, and using a mobile.