The festive crackdown has begun and high profile enforcement activity will be taking place across the county throughout December. In Lancashire, around 12% of road-related deaths can be attributed to drink or drugs.

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Cooke said: "We obviously want people to thoroughly enjoy the holiday season and get into the festive spirit but remember not to get behind the wheel after you have had a drink. The fact that one in eight road deaths are drink or drug related is simply not acceptable. People need to face up to responsibilities and realise drink/drug driving is illegal and completely socially unacceptable."

"The main thing we want to get across during this campaign is the fact you could easily be over the limit the morning after a night out. Drivers should ask themselves when their last drink was and make sure there is a considerable gap between their last drink and getting behind the wheel. A conviction for drinking and driving could mean you lose your job, home, family and friends. Is it really worth sacrificing all that?"

The Christmas figures continue to fall with just 2.5% of those tested last year failing or refusing a test despite more tests being carried out.

ACC Cooke added: "Our figures are good, especially around Christmas time and I think the message is getting through to people. However, in today's day and age, is one person drink driving not one too many? Is one door knock to a parent or spouse saying their loved one is dead not one too many? For those people who do drink and drive or take drugs and get behind the wheel, then it's only a matter of time until we get catch up with you."

Police are also urging revellers to take care during the party season and have issued the following advice:

· If you are going out and drinking plan how you are going to get home and stick to that plan

· Try to keep to busy well-lit areas and don't take short cuts and walk away from bushes and buildings;

· Where possible, don't walk alone after dark. Take someone you know with you;

· Always walk facing oncoming traffic;

· To avoid delay, have your keys ready when you are approaching your car or home;

· Never accept lifts from strangers;

· When telephoning for a taxi, ask for the driver's name and check this when he/she arrives;

ACC Cooke added: "We want everyone to have a really good Christmas and make the most of the holiday period. We would also urge people to keep safe and look after themselves and remember, don't drink and drive."