With many people planning to ‘go big’ this festive season, South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership (SYSRP) is urging people not to ‘blow it’ and ruin their long-awaited Christmas.

With the Covid pandemic putting a stop to most of last December’s celebrations, this year, families, friends, and colleagues will be preparing to make up for missing out.

As we count down to the party season, the Partnership has enlisted the help of some iconic Lego characters to remind people of the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence of drink or drugs.

Joanne Wehrle, manager of SYSRP, said: “We’ve all waited so long to have a restriction-free Christmas and all we want is for the people of South Yorkshire to enjoy time with their loved ones safely.

“People will of course be partying and celebrating which is great, but we have to remember that alcohol affects us all differently and even the smallest amount can be dangerous when driving or riding.

“Not only does it slow down signals to the brain, alcohol reduces vision and gives us a surge in confidence meaning we are more likely to take risks.

“With reduced reaction times and the ability to spot hazards, anyone driving under the influence of drink or drugs really is putting themselves and others at risk of a collision.”

Every year in the UK, 200 people lose their lives and 9,000 people are injured in a drink-drive related crash. Research has found that you are six times more likely to crash if you drive after having a drink, even if you are within the legal limit.

“Our message is simple: avoid alcohol if you are driving,” said Joanne. “We encourage people to have ‘none for the road’ because any amount impacts on safety.

“Plan ahead, take public transport, book a taxi or take it in turns to be designated driver and always look out for your mates.

“Remember you could still be over the limit the morning after as well so leave yourself enough time to sober up.”

Safer Roads’ Lego characters will feature on bus backs and digital screens across the county reminding people to travel safe. They will also form part of the Partnership’s social media campaign #nonefortheroad

Throughout December, South Yorkshire Police officers will set up roadside stop sites administering breath tests and drug wipes in a bid to clamp down on drink and drug driving.

To find out the law and penalties on drink and drug driving visit: https://sysrp.co.uk/drinkdriving