192 drivers take part in Op Take Off

Holidays to remember for all the right reasons.

Thanks to the 192 drivers who took part in Operation Take Off at Teesside Airport after returning from holiday this morning.

Our Durham Roads & Armed Policing Unit officers held the stop checks as part of their road safety campaign to target holidaymakers who get behind the wheel under the influence.

The force launched Op Take Off following the devastating loss of baby Zackary Blades and his aunt Karlene Warner who were killed on their way home from Newcastle International Airport in May 2024.

Their killer, Darryl Anderson, had also landed at the airport and got behind the wheel when he was nearly three times over the drink drive limit.

Officers have been conducting Op Take Off ever since in a bid to spread awareness, educate drivers and prevent further fatalities.

With the exception of one driver who was arrested after initially failing the breathalyser at the roadside but then clearing in custody, we are happy to report everyone else passed with flying colours.

Thank you for helping us to keep our roads safe.