Don’t be a morning-after drink-driver this Christmas.

That’s the message from Devon and Cornwall Police, whose officers carried out patrols on the A390 at Treyew Road in Truro this morning [Friday, December 19], in a bid to raise awareness of how long it takes for alcohol and drugs to leave the system.

Around 40 drivers were waved into a road alongside Lidl to be breathalysed and have their documents and vehicles checked over. While some were chosen at random, others were identified for moving traffic offences including vehicle defects.

One driver tested positive for drugs and another vehicle was seized due to lack of driving licence, but the vast majority were sent on their way with thanks and a smile.

The activity was part of Operation Limit, Devon & Cornwall Police’s initiative to tackle the uplift in seasonal drink and drug driving throughout December.

While the “don’t drink and drive” message has been hammered home for decades, many remain unaware of how long it takes to be alcohol-free after a big night out.

Heading up the operation, PC Dave Langley, road casualty reduction officer for Cornwall, said “The body starts processing alcohol half an hour after your last drink, at a rate of one unit per hour. That means it takes five pints 15 hours to clear your system – and we do not advise people to drive with any alcohol in their system.”

Those still over the legal limit while driving the next day could face charges ranging from a maximum penalty of six months in prison, a driving ban of at least one year and an endorsement on a driving licence for 11 years.

PC Langley added: “Our message is: if you’re going to a party, either don’t drink, or make sure you have a designated driver – and don’t drive the next day.”