POLICE chiefs in East Lancashire today welcomed the start of a new government campaign to reduce drinking and driving throughout the festive period.

Road Safety Minister David Jamieson was today reminding motorists to stay sober when driving over the Christmas and New Year period - and make sure they drive safely.

The message coincided with the start of television advertising that will run from today until the New Year.

Drink-drive deaths have fallen dramatically over the past 20 years. However, in 2002, there were an estimated 560 drink-drive fatalities, a six per cent increase over 2001.

That was despite the fact that the government spends £3 million each year on drink-drive related activity and our penalties are among the toughest in Europe.

David Jamieson said: "Drink drivers are still killing people. Last year, one in six deaths on our roads was drink-drive related. The vast majority of motorists know the dangers and obey the law, but a minority of irresponsible and reckless drivers are ignoring it.

"If you are going out and enjoying yourself over Christmas, don't turn your night into a nightmare - leave the car at home, and if you can't

use public transport designate a non-drinking driver.

"Remember that you could still be over the limit in the morning after a good night out."

A spokeswoman for Lancashire Constabulary said: "We all know how devastating the results of drink driving can be and anything that helps to stop it can only be welcomed."