There are concerns that appeals for people not to drink and drive over the Christmas period are being ignored.

Thames Valley Police force saw an increase of 10% in drink driving arrests last year.

This year the force is heading a campaign called "I'll be Dez" - encouraging people to designate a driver who will not drink.

Police warn that drivers caught over the legal limit can face a fine of �2,500, up to three months in prison and a lengthy ban.

'Don't risk it'

This year police have also enlisted the help of Reading Football Club to promote the "I'll be Dez" message.

Supt Neil Olney, Head of Roads Policing, said: "We will be paying specific attention to drink driving during the festive season and will not take the pressure off drink drivers.

"If you are going out over the festive season make sure you and your friends make alternative arrangements to get home and don't risk drinking and driving.

"I would remind people going to parties that if you are drinking late at night you may still be over the limit in the morning."

More than 3,000 people are killed or seriously injured in drink drive collisions each year.