POLICE today launched a crackdown on summer drink drivers as part of a national campaign to stop boozers getting behind the wheel.

Working in partnership with Lancashire County Council and other local authorities' road safety groups, police are determined to stamp out drink driving, which reaches its peak in the summer months.

Last year nearly 2,300 people were charged with drink driving offences across the county last year, with the majority of them during summer.

Under the banner "Together We Can Make the Difference" police are urging drivers to think before they drink.

Inspector Chris Gradwell said: "In the summer the good weather can be a temptation to drink and drive. A drive to the country pub, beer garden or barbecue seems a good idea until you lose track of just how often your glass has been filled. The result being that you drink more than you planned. We are trying to encourage people to think about how they will get home should they choose to drink."

Across the county drivers can make the difference by not drinking and driving. Any alcohol, even a small amount, can affect a driver's judgment -- and have lasting consequences.

People are also being urged to shop drivers by using the Drink-Link facility. Anyone with any information about a drink-driver is asked to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. All calls are free and can be made anonymously.

Inspector Gradwell added: "Summer is traditionally a peak period for people drinking and driving and it is important that the police send out a clear message that it will not be tolerated in Lancashire.

"Of course, the police cannot do this alone and we are working with councils and all our other partners to stamp out the problem."

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