POLICE are urging people not to get behind the wheel as pubs and bars look forward to welcoming punters through their doors this weekend.

The government allowed pubs to reopen last Saturday and more in Swindon and Wiltshire have been able to do so in a Covid-safe manner since.

But Wiltshire Police are asking drivers to make the right decision.

Inspector Mark Freeman of the Road Policing Team said: “Traditionally, summer is a prolific time for drink driving convictions and we are concerned that with more licenced premises opening their doors this weekend, for the first time since the easing of lockdown regulations, that more people will be tempted to drive somewhere to have a drink.

“As one of the Fatal Four causes of death on our roads, drink or drug driving along with inappropriate speed, not wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile phone when driving, are all easy to avoid. You just need to make the right decisions.

“Our message is perfectly clear. If you take a risk with your life and that of other people by drink or drug driving, you will be caught.”

Drink drivers can receive a fine of up to £5,000, a minimum 12-month driving ban and a criminal record.

Anyone wishing to report an incident of drink or drug driving should call Wiltshire Police on 101 and select option 2 for the Drink Drive Hotline.