Cheshire Police said the way to tackle drug driving is about educating people

Some 200 officers have been trained in a programme similar to police in the USA, to carry out on-the-spot tests on drivers suspected of using drugs.

The US roadside tests include making suspects stand on one leg, walk in a straight line then turning and standing up straight with eyes shut.

Cheshire Police said it has been launched because it is a serious issue.

Recent figures show that 71 per cent of people judged not to be impaired without testing proved to have drug levels indicative of drug misuse once they were tested PC Robbie Burns, Cheshire Police drug driving unit

Motorists found guilty of driving under the influence of drugs could face imprisonment. Lesser penalties include a �5,000 fine and up to 11 points on a driving licence.

The new scheme is being run in conjunction with the Cheshire Impaired Driving Group, made up of experts from the emergency, drugs and probation services which paid for two officers to travel to California, known for having a high number of cocaine users, for training with their counterparts.

PC Robbie Burns, who took part in training, said: "The training was just the start, now we're back we face a number of significant challenges.

"Recent figures show that 71% of people judged not to be impaired without testing proved to have drug levels indicative of drug misuse once they were tested.

"This indicates the police are regularly missing the opportunity to test drivers and riders just because their outward appearance does not give rise to concern."