MORE than 200 drivers have been arrested for drink driving.

Avon and Somerset made the 223 arrests as part of the forces summer campaign against people who drink before getting behind the wheel.

Of the 223 arrests 41 were in the South Gloucestershire area.

Superintendent Andy Pullan, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "This campaign was about reminding people that drinking alcohol and driving is a lethal combination.

"Everybody is aware of the dangers, but there are still the reckless few who are prepared to gamble on others and their own lives."

Police stopped and breathalysed 1,577 motorists across Avon and Somerset last month during the campaign and 62 of those caught over the limit were under the age of 21.

In 2007 three people were killed because of drink drive related accidents on local roads and 72 were seriously injured.

Nationally more than 90,000 people have been breath tested as part of ACPO's (Association of Chief Police Officers) summer drink drive campaign.

Supt Pullan said: "Driving or attempting to drive while above the legal limit or unfit through drink could lead to a penalty of six months imprisonment, a fine of up to £5,000 and a minimum 12 month driving ban.

"Campaigns like this reinforce the message that drinking and getting behind the wheel of a car is unacceptable. We will continue to show drivers that they will get caught if they drink and drive and there are severe consequences when they do."