FREE wine-tasting at a Worcester off-licence flies in the face of a Christmas crackdown on drink-driving, critics have claimed.

Bargain Booze which stands on the forecourt of the Texaco petrol station in Ombersley Road, is offering customers the chance to sample a selection of its tipples, today.

However, people living nearby who fought against the opening of the off-licence fear this could encourage drivers to have a drink before getting back behind the wheel.

"I can't believe an off-licence can be so irresponsible," said 78-year-old retired landlord Fred Barratt.

"We're being bombarded with commercials trying to stop people drinking and driving and now motorists could be tempted into sampling a free glass of wine after filling up the car."

Dave Pritchard, manager of Turbo Motor Spares, in Ombersley Road, said he was surprised to hear the off-licence was offering the free wine.

"This really is not a nice thing to do at this time of year," said Mr Pritchard.

"I also don't think a garage forecourt is the right place for an off-licence in the first place."

Another resident, mum-of-two Debbie Lawrenson, said it was an "outrage".

"I am totally against drink-driving especially as I have two young children, who could quite easily become the next victim.

"Giving alcohol away free on a garage forecourt is a disgrace and I would like to see this stopped," she said.

Sgt John Roberts West Mercia police road safety officer said drivers have a lot to lose if they drink and drive.

"We don't want to be killjoys but stress people should be very, very careful if they go wine-tasting while driving, especially if they have been drinking the night before," he said.

"A couple of glasses of wine, of different strengths, could push people over the limit.

"Most car crashes involving one vehicle tend to happen between 10am and 7pm and this is usually as a result of alcohol."

Owner of Bargain Booze Haydn Goody was not available for comment.