There will be no leniency for anyone caught drink-driving as they see in the new millennium.

And Essex Police have said that a new fast-track court system means that drivers will be minus their driving licences, or even behind bars, in less than 72 hours.

In previous drink-drive campaigns, offenders could wait as long as the February of the following year to be dealt with.

The Narey system was introduced in the county in August last year, using drink-drive offences to test the procedure. The system became nationally operative from November 1.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Anyone who commits an offence and indicates a guilty plea can be convicted and sentenced less than 72 hours after being charged.

"This short, sharp shock provides immediate punishment, reduces the likelihood of other offences being committed and helps reassure victims that justice is being done."

Traffic police Chief Inspector Tom Diment said: "This year's campaign will be somewhat unique due to people celebrating the millennium. Also, anyone arrested for a drink-drive offence will be subjected to the fast-tracking of offenders to court.

"Essex Police will be rigorously enforcing all drink-related road traffic offences and this fact is being widely publicised, so anyone caught breaking the law can expect no leniency.

"Essex Police wish everyone a safe and happy holiday period, so please don't drink and drive, and make sure you have a safe means of getting home before indulging in alcohol."

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.