POLICE have warned they will be clamping down on drink-drivers over Christmas.

The West Mercia force will be supporting the Government's anti-drink drive initiative this Yuletide with extra officers running breathalyser tests.

Last year, eight people died and 196 people were injured in road collisions throughout the force area during the festive period.

"Drink-drive enforcement is an all-year-round activity for West Mercia Constabulary, but officers will be particularly vigilant over the coming festive period," said Sgt John Roberts, from West Mercia's traffic and operations department.

"The festive period offers more opportunities to drink and drive. I always give the example of if you're dropping off presents at a relative's home, you're going to be offered a sherry or a beer simply because it's Christmas."

"Drinking and driving can kill and seriously injure people. Even if no one is hurt because of your stupidity, if you are caught you will have to live with the consequences for many years to come."

Long term problems that could result from being caught drink-driving, according to the police, include prospective employers rejecting applicants with a drink-drive offence, foreign countries applying entry restrictions and insurance premiums being increased.