ARRESTS for Christmas drink-driving remained at the same level as last year, according to figures from Merseyside and Cheshire police.

Between December 18 and January 2, the Merseyside force carried out 377 breath tests on motorists who had been involved in traffic accidents.

Seven percent of those tested were arrested - the same as last year.

Cheshire police arrested 19 people, which was also the same number as 2001.

Officers say the figures show the drink-driving message is finally getting through.

Inspector Dave Bell of Merseyside Police said: "I think it's true to say the vast majority of Merseysiders are joining the rest of the country in finding drinking and driving socially and morally unacceptable - as we can see from the fact that only one-in-15 drivers tested were arrested.

"However, there is still a hardcore of highly irresponsible people out there who persist in driving after drinking.

"We need to continue to work to target these people and make them realise the potential consequences of their actions."

Brian Rogers, campaign inspector for Cheshire, said: "Through the use of intelligence and targeting specific locations, positive results have been achieved through making the most effective and efficient use of police resources.

"The message is clearly making its way through to the law-abiding population who should be thanked for making alternative travel arrangements and helping to make roads safer this Christmas and New Year."