MOTORISTS in Hampshire are continuing to drink and drive despite repeated warnings from police.

Latest figures show a total of 279 people were arrested and charged with driving over the legal alcohol limit during the festive period.

The total is an increase of seven per cent on last year's arrest figure of 260.

Today officers from Hampshire Constabulary's traffic department admitted the annual statistics were disappointing.

Insp Peter Hughes, the force's head of road safety, said: "Despite repeated warnings, motorists are still drinking and driving.

"We remind people that drink-driving is a police priority all through the year and not just at Christmas and New Year."

Insp Hughes added: "We repeat our message to drivers to be responsible - don't drink and drive.

"Remember that after heavy drinking sessions, alcohol can remain in the body for many hours after consumption ceases, often well into the following day."

The 279 drivers found to be over the legal drink-drive limit were arrested during the period between December 1 and January 2.