EVERY year at this time police launch campaigns to discourage people from putting lives at risk by drink driving over the Christmas and New Year period.

And every year, despite all the warnings, drivers are caught over the limit either at roadside checkpoints or at the scene of an accident their own stupidity has caused.

Some drivers grumble about the amount of time and effort police devote to these seasonal crackdowns and moan about the cost of it all.

But anyone touched by a death or maiming caused by an alcohol-fuelled motorist will wholeheartedly support this year's campaign.

It's not just about not drinking and driving at Christmas but changing attitudes so that boozing and getting behind the wheel become socially unacceptable at any time of the year because of the huge risk of causing real carnage, grief and misery.

To a whole generation aged under 35 it is noticeable that far more common sense prevails about drink driving than among the over 50s.

And if the latest campaign twist - rewards of up to £500 for calling a special phone line to shop persistent drink drivers - succeeds it is likely this age group will be its victims.

As the party season gets into full swing we should all remember today's expert advice.

"There are no excuses. Motorists who drink and drive have only themselves to blame if they get caught."