Man arrested for drink driving after car hits lamppost and wall after police chase in Liverpool city centre

The drama kicked off at 2am on Monday when police were told about a man who was suspected to be under the influence getting into a car.

There was a “brief pursuit”, say police, and the car then hit a lamppost and a wall before the driver and passenger were detained.

A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drink driving; failing to stop; dangerous driving; and driving without a licence, and was taken to a police station for questioning.

The man was spotted getting into the car in Wood Street in Liverpool, and crash was in Argyle Street.

Merseyside Police’s matrix roads policing Chief Inspector Stuart McIver said: “It is encouraging to see a member of door staff in the area making an effort to contact us with their concerns about this driver, which allowed us to take swift action. It is exactly the sort of attitude that will bring about lasting change. Challenging suspected drink and drug drivers will prevent death and serious injury on our roads. Our officers are highly trained and will recognise the signs of driving when intoxicated, as shown by the other arrests in the early hours.

“The harm caused by driving while under the influence are plain to see, from fatal and serious injuries caused by drivers, through to the impact it has on those arrested. Prison sentences; financial penalties and job loss - no night out is worth ruining your life for.

“Today marks the beginning of our Winter of Action campaign, which is a major policing push to tackle crime and reassure communities. Part of the campaign is reiterating our commitment to addressing drink and drug driving, which we sadly know are likely to increase at this time of year. To see four arrests made so early on in December is disappointing to see, but we will keep highlighting the action being taken until this message sticks in people’s minds, before they and others feel the consequences of their recklessness.

“Roadside checks will be happening across Merseyside through December and January, so ask yourself if you are fit to drive and if there are any doubts, make alternative plans. These arrests show that, through officers, CCTV, partners and members of the public, such behaviour will be challenged and tackled.

“We don’t just do these roadside checks over Christmas, we do them all year round. Nowhere, at any time of the year, is safe to drug or drink drive in Merseyside. We are always watching and always testing.”

The force also said that that night a 62-year-old man from Liverpool was arrested shortly after midnight on suspicion of drug-driving after being spotted speeding on Oakfield Road in Anfield, a 30-year-old woman from Bootle was arrested on suspicion of drink driving after attempting to drive down a no entry on Sunbeam Road at around 1.30am and a 32-year-old man from Walton was arrested on suspicion of drug driving after being seen in collision with a pedestrian barrier on Princess Road at around 1.30am.

Anyone who believes someone is driving under the influence or either drugs or alcohol is encouraged to call 999 as soon as possible and can also report concerns by calling 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.