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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Neil Pooran & Sarah Vesty

Cops issue drink drive warning to Scots motorists as pubs reopen in England

Scots motorists are being warned not to drink and drive as police officers carry out daily patrols to catch law-breakers.

Senior cop Gary Ritchie is also reminding visitors to Scotland that the legal limit for alcohol in drivers is lower than south of the border.

Pubs are reopening in England on Saturday with thousands of Scots expected to travel south to take advantage of the relaxing restrictions.

But boozers remain shut north of the border until Monday, when outdoor areas like beer gardens can host customers again.

Police Scotland said officers would not be stopping cars or making any changes to policing in the border area, although the force urged people to follow the coronavirus rules.

Assistant chief constable Gary Ritchie said: "The chief constable has made it clear that we are asking people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to stay safe, protect others and save lives by preventing the virus from spreading.

"We recognise that people have made significant sacrifices but we would ask them to continue to comply with the regulations and the Scottish Government's guidance.

Drinks are served during the reopening of pubs in England (PA)

"Our officers will continue to engage with the public, explain the legislation and guidance and encourage compliance.

“We will use enforcement as a last resort only where there is a clear breach of the legislation."

He continued: "Police Scotland is currently carrying out its summer drink and drug drive campaign, and we have officers out on proactive patrols on a daily basis to deter and detect drink or drug driving.

"Drivers visiting Scotland should also remember that the drink drive limit here is lower."

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