A HARD-HITTING clamp down on drink drivers over Christmas has been declared a success by police.

Despite several forces across the country reporting an unwelcome increase in the number of people found to be over the legal alcohol limit, annual figures released by Cheshire Constabulary this week are slightly better.

A total of 24 people throughout the county were arrested for drink driving between December 18, 2000 and January, 2001 - the same number as last year.

Assistant Chief Constable John Dwyer welcomed the results, but urged motorists not to become complacent.

"While it is pleasing to see that we have not seen an increase in drink drive figures this year, it appears that there is still a core of people who think it is acceptable to drink and drive," he said.

Although the figures remain static, police believe this year's campaign to target known routes and areas was more effective than undertaking intensive roadside checks.

As part of the campaign a Road RATS hotline was also set up to encourage members of the public to tell police about suspected drink drivers, which resulted in 11 people being arrested.

"The message is clearly making its way through to the law-abiding population of Cheshire who should be thanked for making alternative travel arrangements and helping to make the county's roads safer this Christmas and New Year," Mr Dwyer added.

"But with our Road RATS line set to extend its life throughout 2001, no drink drivers are safe."