Callers cash in on drink-drive scheme

A police force offering a reward of up to £500 to anyone who reports drink-drivers over the festive season has been inundated with calls on the first day of the scheme.

People are asked to leave anonymous tip-offs on a freephone line if they know someone who is over the limit. Thames Valley Police said there would be "no hiding place" and called on family, friends, publicans and neighbours to help. If a call leads to a conviction the average reward will be up to £120, but serious cases could earn the full £500.

On the first day of the scheme, Thames Valley police has been inundated with telephone calls from whistleblowers and has been forced to refer callers to Crimestoppers.

Inspector Dave Hartin, head of the force's Roads Policing and Intelligence Unit, said: "These people are arrogant enough to believe they will not be caught. I have to tell them we will be making every effort to prove them wrong."

The initiative will be carried out in conjunction with roadside spot-checks throughout December and the New Year period.

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