A CAMPAIGN to highlight the dangers of drink-driving and warn drivers of the potential penalties was launched in Essex this week. The Essex Casualty Reduction Board (ECRB) is hoping to bring down the number of people who choose to get behind the wheel aft

A CAMPAIGN to highlight the dangers of drink-driving and warn drivers of the potential penalties was launched in Essex this week.

The Essex Casualty Reduction Board (ECRB) is hoping to bring down the number of people who choose to get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol over the festive period, in a one-month campaign.

ECRB chairman Norman Hume said: "We are committed to reducing road casualties, and in the month leading up to Christmas and the New Year drink-driving sadly becomes an even greater factor in crashes.

"Alcohol slows down reaction times, and paired with winter weather and road conditions this is a lethal combination.

"Any amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive, even within the legal limit.

"I would urge people not to drink and drive if they are going out, and if in a group always nominate someone who will not drink to take everybody home safely afterwards."

More than 3000 people are killed or seriously injured in the UK each year as a result of drink-driving, and alcohol is a factor in one in six of all deaths on the road.

In Essex last year more than 5000 drivers were stopped and tested, 156 of whom turned out to be over the limit.

Chief Insp Tom Diment of Essex Police said: "If you drink and drive in Essex you are very likely to get stopped and breathalysed.

"Anyone who is over the legal limit will be prosecuted.