A ROADS policing officer has said he would welcome a roadside test that would determine if drivers had taken drugs.

PC Mark Royle-Evatt was speaking as the Lancashire Police team carried out its annual safety campaign, urging people not to get behind the wheel if they have been drinking or taking other substances that could impair their judgement.

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Currently, officers can carry out a field impairment test, which checks drivers’ pupils and asks them to carry out simple tasks to see if they are fit, however the results can vary considerably depending on the individual.

But PC Royle-Evatt said a strip that could be held against a person’s forehead, which would be able to highlight if certain substances were in their system, would assist them with their work.

He said: “As yet, there is no test, like for alcohol, for drugs, but in the near future, we are going to get something and it will be extremely useful.

“It means if we stopped someone, and their manner was suspicious, and we tested for alcohol, but it came back negative, we could then carry out this test.”

The roads policing team is encouraging East Lancashire’s party-goers to have “none for the road” when it comes to drinking or taking drugs before driving.

They are also warning people that they could still be over the limit the morning after a night out, even if they have been to sleep, had some coffee, or taken a cold shower.

PC Royle-Evatt added: “As part of the drive, we have had check points across East Lancashire and the reaction to what we do is extremely positive.

“Most people see that drink-driving is wholly wrong and dangerous.” It is unacceptable. If you drive under the influence of alcohol, it is not just your life you could be putting at risk.

“Drink-driving is still one of the main causes of fatalities in road traffic collisions along with drugs.”

The officer said it could often take longer than people expected for alcohol to completely leave the blood stream – around one hour for every unit, the equivalent of a normal strength pint.

Stephen Bedford, who voluntarily gave a breath test when pulled over by officers as part of the seasonal campaign, said he was glad police were checking up on drivers.

The 59-year-old warehouse worker, from Stacksteads, said: “I did not mind being pulled over one bit.

“I do not drink and drive, but I know other people do, soIt is good to see the police out checking.”