WHO'S taking you home tonight? That's the question being asked as part of this year's anti drink-driving campaign, which was launched yesterday by West Mercia police.

The festive season campaign features the poignant question next to a picture of a taxi, bus, police car, ambulance and a hearse, with the aim of pressing home the dangers of drink-driving.

West Mercia's road safety officer, Sgt John Roberts, said: "The stark message is that if people drink and drive they are running a serious risk of being killed, injured -- or ending up under arrest in the back of a police car.

"Drivers must also appreciate that if they drink large quantities of alcohol during evening celebrations, they could still be over the limit the following morning."

Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service's locality manager, Roger Job, said: "The Christmas and New Year period is traditionally the busiest time for the ambulance service and our crews are all too familiar in dealing with the horrific effects of drinking and driving.

"We would wish that everyone enjoys themselves over the festive period but not at the expense of ruining other peoples' lives."

Roadside checks will also take place across the county throughout December, which are aimed at targeting the irresponsible minority who ignore the force's anti drink-drive message.

Sgt Roberts said: These checks will be combined with high profile policing on roads across the area to encourage good driver behaviour, and deter those who may be tempted to have a drink before taking the wheel."