Police last night issued a renewed plea to north-east motorists considering getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.
The warning comes after 15 people were arrested last weekend for drink-driving offences across the region, in Elgin, Forres, Buckie, Peterhead, Fraserburgh, New Pitsligo, Inverurie and Oldmeldrum.
The drivers involved were between 18 and 41.
Yesterday, Inspector Jon Barron branded the drink-drivers as a “small minority” who were putting other people’s lives at risk.
“These drivers will now have to face the significant consequences of their irresponsible actions – personal, financial and a variety of others.
“As I said previously, my officers, and those in the local policing teams, will continue to do our utmost to deter those who seem intent on putting lives at risk on the north-east’s roads.
“Your help and support is absolutely crucial to help us ensure we can all use the roads safely and free from those willing to endanger us all by having been drinking or taken drugs. Please, if you think someone may be driving under the influence, tell us as soon as you can.”
Anyone convicted of drink-driving or attempting to drink-drive can expect to be banned from the roads for one year.
They can also be fined up to £5,000, risk a six month prison sentence and can have their vehicle seized.