Summer anti-drink drive campaign launched

A Bristol pub has been chosen as the venue to launch a new summer anti drink-drive campaign.

The scheme, organised by the Health Promotion Service Avon, is aimed at encouraging publicans to help prevent drivers from drinking and driving.

Organisers of the initiative claim the summer is a prime time for drink-drive accidents and are urging licensees to introduce offers on soft drinks to encourage pubgoers not to drink and drive.

It was launched at Eldridge Pope's Ostrich pub at Bristol Docks last week.

Licensees Alison Rawles and Angus Ashman put up posters at the pub to promote the message that drinking and driving do not mix. Promotional packs will also be sent out to publicans all over Bristol to display in their pubs and the campaign is being supported by Bristol police and Avonsafe - Action for Alliance.

Campaign organiser Liz Lansley, spokeswoman for the Health Promotion Service, said: "While those of us able to drink alcohol have plenty of choice, this is often not the case for drivers. Pubs should be more driver-friendly and make it clear what non-alcoholic drinks are available and, where possible, cut the price."

Chief inspector Richard Reed of the road policing unit said: "Contrary to popular belief, the highest figures for drink-drive accidents are in the summer months not just before Christmas. This initiative discourages people from drinking and driving and has the full support of the police."

Ms Rawles added: "Many of our customers pop in for a drink after work. Others drive down to the docks in the evening. In both instances the temptation to drink and drive is there. We wholeheartedly support such efforts to stamp out drinking and driving."