NEW technology could hold the key to preventing people convicted of drink-driving in Bury from re-offending.

Trials are now taking place into the use of alcohol "breath testing" locks which prevent cars from behind started if the convicted drink-driver has consumed even just a small amount of alcohol.

If the 18-month long pilot scheme is successful -- it is currently being tested in Bristol and Birmingham -- then new legislation will allow courts throughout the country to use alcohol locks as part of their drink-drive rehabilitation programmes.

Every year more than 3,000 people are killed and seriously injured in drink-related road accidents while 10,000 drivers are annually convicted of drink-driving, with 20 per cent repeat offenders.

Last year, Greater Manchester had the second highest number of alcohol-related road accident casualties -- a total of 1,331 -- outside London.

The alcohol lock device can be fited into the car's ignition and the driver must take a breath test to check blood alcohol levels.

If they are too high then the car will not start.

The technology also includes a random testing function which monitors the driver en-route ensuring that alcohol has not been consumed since starting the car.

Road Safety Minister, David Jamieson, launched the pilot scheme this week.

He said: "Drivers who have been banned in the past could have the alcohol lock device fitted to stop them driving even after half a pint or a small glass of wine. Alcohol lock programmes in other countries have worked well with repeat drink-drivers and it is vital that we look at how the technology could be received here too."