Published Thursday 21 December 2017 at 11:08
Blackburn with Darwen Council is supporting a Lancashire-wide drink and drug campaign over the festive season.
This year’s drink and drug campaign, in conjunction with Lancashire Road Safety Partnership, uses the poignant theme ‘Which direction will you take?’ And asks: ‘How will you get home tonight?’
A hearse, police car, ambulance and taxi were lined-up outside Blackburn Town Hall this week to remind revellers of the consequences of their decisions when going out. A similar themed event happened in Blackpool earlier this month.
The festive crackdown, aims to educate drivers about the dangers of drinking and taking drugs before driving and asks them to think about how they will get home after a night out.
Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Cllr Mohammed Khan, said: “This campaign has a serious message as we too often see the devastation caused by dangerous and reckless driving that’s associated with drinking and taking drugs . The impact that it has on families and the wider community is devastating. We want to help ensure people stay safe and are able to enjoy the festivities. I would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Christmas and New Year.”
Inspector Andy Trotter said: “If you’re out partying this Christmas then please plan ahead and book a taxi, check public transport times or don’t drink. If you know of someone who is driving under the influence of drink or drugs then please do the right thing and call us on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously before they kill themselves or somebody else. Nobody wants to end up in a police car, ambulance, or in the worst instance a hearse.”
Graeme O’Neill, Co-Op Funeral Services, said: “We tragically see first-hand the impact that drink or drug driving has on those that are left behind. We urge people to think ahead, book a taxi and avoid coming home in one of our vehicles.”