There was an increase in the number of offenders last year

The annual campaign has been expanded in the wake of a 40% rise in the number of drink-drivers caught during last years month-long crackdown.

More than 20 motorists a week were arrested for flouting the law over the festive period.

The initiative will run 24 hours a day until 3 January.

As part of the four-week campaign, Lothian and Borders Police road branch will be increasing mobile patrols and carrying out a series of high visibility road checks.

Police officers will also be asking offenders to complete a short questionnaire and will be handing out pens to all motorists with a reminder to consider safer driving.

Worrying rise

Ch Insp Kenny Buchanan said last year's figures showed a worrying rise in the number of young female drink drivers.

He said: "Motorists caught drink-drug driving face severe penalties in the courts including the risk of losing their licence, getting a criminal record, driving bans, fines and a prison sentence.

"There is no safe limit when it comes to drinking and driving. Every individual is different and can be affected by his/her own physical metabolism, food intake and a host of other factors.

"My advice is if you are taking the car, stick to soft drinks.