Scooter firm deploys breathalyser tests

BREATHALYSERS and cognitive tests are being deployed by Newcastle's e-scooter operator this Christmas because of its "party city" reputation.

- By DANIEL HOLLAND Local democracy reporter

People on e-scooters in Jesmond

E-scooter firm Neuron has announced that riders now have to pass an app-based reaction test before hiring one of the orange vehicles between 9pm and 4am over the festive period on Tyneside.

The company is also sending out safety ambassadors equipped with “educational” breathalysers at some of the city’s busiest nighttime spots throughout December. It said that Newcastle’s reputation for “long nights out and enthusiastic drinking” had triggered the extra safety measures.

Newcastle City Council told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the “vast majority” of Geordies would enjoy the Christmas festivities responsibly.