CREWE has been named and shamed as the third area in the UK with highest rates of drivers with drink or drug-driving convictions.

Internet comparison website MoneySuperMarket analysed 11million car insurance quotes run over the last 12 months.

Their research found that 1.809 per 1000 drivers in Crewe had drink or drug-driving convictions on their insurance policies.

Llandrindod Wells had the highest proportion of motorists with offences for drink and drug-driving with1.982 per 1000 drivers. Blackpool came second with 1.856 per 1000.

Kevin Pratt, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: “All right-minded people understand that drink or drug-driving is wrong – and wrong on so many levels. 

“First and foremost, an intoxicated driver puts the lives of others at risk, whether they are drivers, pedestrians or passengers in his or her own car. 

“Then there is the massive financial and social impact that a conviction can bring, from paying a fine to putting your job on the line to struggling to get affordable car insurance at subsequent renewals.”

Those found guilty breaking the drink and drug-driving laws will receive a driving ban of at least 12 months, a fine of up to £5,000, and in some cases, a prison sentence of up to six months.

And even after a ban is served, a conviction will see insurance premiums shoot up by an average £350.

Peter Rodger, chief examiner for IAM, the UK's leading independent road safety charity, said: "It’s nearly 50 years since breathalysers were introduced yet incredibly there are still people drink-driving and putting lives at risk.

"Motorists have to face the consequences of their actions. The message is really simple. If you are driving, don’t drink at all. If you are drinking, don’t drive at all.”