Free soft drinks for 'designated drivers'

Police launch 'Lift Legends' to cut drink driving

'Designated drivers' who stay off the booze when accompanying people partying this festive season can get free soft drinks as part of a campaign organised by police.

Devon and Cornwall Police have worked with almost 80 licensed premises on what they call 'Lift Legends.' It's billed as a ‘thank you’ for getting friends, colleagues and family members get home safely.

Last year, the region's coppers arrested 952 people for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Drivers buying a soft drink in one of the participating venues will receive a voucher to get their second drink free of charge.

Sergeant Owen Messenger said: “If you think you are safe to drive after drinking or taking drugs, think again. Even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system increases the risk of causing serious harm to yourself or other road users.

“Despite long-term reductions, drink and drug driving still accounts for 15 per cent of road deaths and almost 10,000 casualties nationally each year.

“Tackling drink and drug driving is a priority for Devon & Cornwall Police. Our officers will be out in force, rigorously targeting those who are a danger on our roads, day or night.

Alison Hernandez, police and crime commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is chair of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership. She said: "Drink driving is unacceptable. It puts the driver, passengers and innocent members of the public at substantial risk.

"Those found guilty of this crime face losing their license and even going to prison, which could cost you your job and livelihood.

"This doesn’t just apply to people who are on a big night out, those driving the morning after a few drinks could also unexpectedly be over the limit and unfit to drive.

“Please, don’t risk it – take advantage of this offer and get free soft drinks for your designated driver. Let’s make sure everyone gets home safely this Christmas.”

If you suspect someone has been drinking or has taken drugs and is about to drive, please dial 999 and provide the make and model of the vehicle, registration number and direction of travel.