Lift Legend scheme now includes free soft drink for drivers at 200 venues
The scheme is backed by a father who lost his two children because of a drunk driver
Last updated 2nd Dec 2024
A West Country man - who lost both his children in a crash caused by a drunk driver - has urged those getting behind the wheel to be sensible.
This month Devon and Cornwall Police are increasing patrols looking for those unfit to drive
Steve Kimberley was driving home to Falmouth after watching Plymouth Argyle play when he lost his 12 year old son and 10 year old daughter
Throughout this month designated drivers are being offered free soft drinks at over 200 pubs and clubs across Devon and Cornwall
The Lift Legend scheme, organised by the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership, aims to reward designated drivers for getting their friends, family and colleagues home safely.
Designated drivers simply let the bartender know that they are a Lift Legend for the night and, when purchasing their first soft drink, they will receive a voucher for a free one.
Last year, 419 drivers involved in road traffic collisions in Devon & Cornwall failed roadside breathalyser tests for alcohol.
In total, 1,946 arrests were made for drink-driving in the region last year, with the number standing at 1,429 so far this year.
The prescribed alcohol limit for driving in England is 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood or 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.
However, Adrian Leisk, Devon & Cornwall Police’s Head of Road Safety, said: “Alcohol affects everyone differently and it’s impossible to know exactly how many drinks will put you over the limit.
“You can also be arrested even if you are under the prescribed limit if you are deemed not to be in proper control of your vehicle.
“The only way you can be absolutely sure that you are safe to drive is by not drinking at all beforehand. Have ‘none for the road’ and make the most of the free drinks being offered by our fantastic Lift Legend venues.”
Among the venues taking part this year are 40 pubs and restaurants across Devon & Cornwall operated by St Austell Brewery.
Andrew Turner, Chief Operating Officer at St Austell Brewery, said: “Christmas is a time for celebrating with friends, family and work colleagues.
“As a responsible brewery managing 45 exceptional pubs across the south-west, we welcome thousands of guests through our doors during the festive period. We want to see everyone get home safely – which is why we are delighted to be supporting the Lift Legend scheme with Vision Zero South West across our pubs in Devon and Cornwall.
“As well as offering free soft drinks to designated drivers, our staff are also happy to call guests a taxi or advise on local bus and train times wherever possible.