A PRESTON road safety chief has slammed a new personal breathalyser for putting unsuspecting drivers at risk.

The gadget supplied by Manchester firm Grendonstar, is a do-it-yourself breathalyser for the morning after.

Chief inspector Ian Bell has warned that if used shortly after having a drink, it could read as under the limit, but then within 10 minutes, a driver could become over the limit.

He said: "The problem with people relying on a device is that alcohol can affect people differently and at different times. It isn't an exacting science."

But suppliers of the personal breathalyser claim if it's used by responsible drivers the morning after, there should be no risk of people being misled by it.

The new gismo has the support of the national Campaign Against Drinking and Driving (CADD) and is manufactured, tested and approved to the same levels as the Home Office Approved unit used by the police.

Chairman of CADD Tony Dring said: "The more we can educate people about the problems of drinking and driving and the more we can empower them to find out if they are fit to drive, then the better it will be for everyone."

Chief inspector Bell insisted that the Lancashire Constabulary view is that people should not drink and drive.

The breathalyser is to be distributed at Superdrug, CWS stores and most garage forecourts at £2.99.

In 1995, 460 people died and more than 94,000 drivers were prosecuted in alcohol related incidents.

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