THE alternative to drink driving will be staring many people in the face in pubs and clubs this Christmas.
For First Bus has teamed up with West Yorkshire Police to distribute 75,000 beer mats in West Yorkshire's pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants.
The beer mats remind people to take the bus and not drive over Christmas and new year and are backed up by posters and adverts on First buses.
Road accidents involving drink driving caused 560 deaths, 2,700 serious injuries and 19,000 minor injuries in the UK last year.
First Bus commercial director Nigel Winter said: "The idea is to appeal to people's consciences at moments when their resolve might be weakening and driving home is still being considered.
"We want as many people as possible to consider getting the bus for their nights out and with all the frequent services available, there's plenty of space for everyone."
Chief Supt Phil Read, Head of Community Safety for West Yorkshire Police, said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with First Yorkshire to encourage more people to use public transport over the festive season instead of having a drink after work and then driving home.
"Drinking and driving can have horrific consequences, resulting in serious accidents and even fatalities."
He added: "We'd encourage people to plan their route before going out to ensure they get home safely and take public transport to get into work the following morning as they may still be under the influence."
Anyone with information about drink drivers should contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
