Motorists across Herefordshire are today being reminded of the dangers of driving under the influence of drink or drugs during the festive period.

With the season of festivities nearly underway West Mercia Police has launched a publicity and enforcement campaign to raise awareness of the issues around drink and drug driving. The topic is being highlighted across social media and local radio advertising will be taking place across the region. Increased enforcement activity from police officers across West Mercia will also be in place.

There is no foolproof way of calculating how much you can drink and remain under the limit, or knowing how much an individual person can drink and still drive safely. Importantly, it is hard to calculate how long alcohol may stay in your body if you are driving the morning after so the safest option if you are driving is to drink no alcohol at all. There are plenty of alternatives available with public transport, taxis and sharing designated drivers. Pedestrians are also being encouraged to stay safe during the festive season and to plan safe routes home and to drink responsibly.

Figures indicate that, over the past 3 years 17 people were killed and 103 seriously injured in West Mercia following collisions where drink or drugs were recorded as a contributory factor.

The campaign supports the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) December drink drive campaign. Police forces throughout the UK will be working hard throughout December to make sure the roads are safe for everyone this Christmas and West Mercia Police will certainly be no exception to this. Enforcing the drink and drug drive law is a 24/7 commitment for West Mercia Police and to reflect this police officers will be enforcing at all times of the day and night.

Councillor Barry Durkin, Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Regulatory Services said: "With the festive period and Christmas parties just around the corner, we welcome and fully support West Mercia Police’s campaign to prevent drink and drug driving; which will help ensure the safety of residents and road users in the county. You cannot drink alcohol or take drugs and still drive safely, so it is best to either not drink at all or make alternative travel arrangements perhaps by using a designated driver, when enjoying this year’s seasonal celebrations."