TEN thousand beer mats will be distributed in pubs across Blackburn and Darwen as part of a "drink sensibly" campaign.

As part of Lancashire Constabulary's Operation Shepherd, town centre officers will be working closely with licensees encouraging people not to drink too much in a bid to prevent alcohol related crime and anti social behaviour.

Funded by Blackburn with Darwen Community Safety Partnership, 10,000 Nightsafe (a county wide campaign asking people to drink sensibly) beer mats will be in use in pubs and clubs around Blackburn, displaying four messages:

  • Had one too many? Avoid mixing different types of drinks
  • A night to remember or a night to forget? Don't leave it to chance - work out how you're going to get home before you go out
  • Smashed? Know when it's time to stop. Stay in control of your drinking. Enjoy a tipple this Christmas but drink sensibly and stay safe
  • Stay in control of your drinking. Keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended. Posters pushing the messages will also be displayed in the town centre.

Sergeant Rachel Baines said: "We want everyone to enjoy Christmas and New Year but not at the expense of others.

"I would urge people to consider the amount they are drinking over Christmas and to take extra care when out celebrating."