HUNDREDS of drivers across the North-East have ignored repeated warnings and drink-driving campaigns to take to the roads under the influence of alcohol.

Of almost 300 drivers positively breath-tested by the region's police forces, more than half were arrested in the Northumbria force area.

It means 14 drivers a day were caught over the limit since the region's campaign against drink-driving was launched on November 28.

Police say the figures show there is a hard core of drivers ignoring pleas to stay sober.

Northumbria Police positively tested 161 drivers, while 1,569 gave negative readings.

In County Durham, 75 were positive and 1,832 negative.

On Teesside, 44 motorists were found to have been drinking, while 645 others had negative breath test results.

The three police forces say the 280 drivers charged face disqualifications and heavy fines - and they vowed there would be no let-up in the pressure to keep the region's roads safe through Christmas and the New Year - and beyond.

A total of 3,726 breath tests were carried across the North-East, of which 3,446 were negative.

Inspector Gordon Balderstone, of Durham Police, said: "Although many motorists are heeding the don't drink and drive message, it is disappointing to find that others are still failing to take the message on board."