The association’s data shows that a total of 7,123 drivers were caught risking lives by driving over the limit during the month-long December enforcement campaign across England and Wales; approximately the same as the number as last year.

In response, Brake has renewed its calls for a zero-tolerance drink-drive limit of 20mg alcohol per 100ml of breath instead of the current UK limit of 80mg, adding that research shows even very small amounts of alcohol, under 50mg, substantially increase crash risk and that lowering limits has reduced casualties in other countries.

The charity has also emphasised its support of Government plans to introduce a new law on drug driving, making it an offence to drive with impairing illegal drugs in the body, and bring in roadside drug screening equipment.

And Brake has called for government action to end cuts to road policing, which it says have led to an 11.6% reduction over the last five years in the numbers of traffic police carrying out drink and drug-driving enforcement.

Julie Townsend, deputy chief executive at Brake, said: ‘It’s shocking so many drivers are willing to put themselves and others in such great danger by drinking and driving over the festive period – many of them young and inexperienced. The police do an incredible job taking these risky drivers off our roads and deterring would-be offenders from taking chances with people’s lives. This work results in fewer people needlessly losing lives or suffering appalling injuries, and fewer families dealing with the terrible aftermath of a crash.

‘But this work is in jeopardy, and it’s desperately important the Government acts now to stem potentially catastrophic cut-backs in roads policing, as well as adopting a zero-tolerance drink-drive limit. We need to send a clear message that it should be none for the road, and drink driving will not be tolerated.

‘We are also urging drivers of all ages to make a positive New Year’s resolution that’s about protecting yourself and others on the roads. Pledge to not drink any alcohol, or take any drugs, before driving: not a drop, not a drag.’