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A campaign is aiming to cut down on drink driving in Lichfield by offering free soft drinks to those getting behind the wheel in the build-up to Christmas.

City pubs, Staffordshire Police and Lichfield District Council have teamed up to back the I’ll Be Des scheme.

The campaign aims to encourage people to name themselves Des – the designated non-drinking driver.

Paul Maddox, Chair of the Lichfield Licensees Forum, said:

“The designated driver campaign is a superb initiative, reinforcing the importance of safe and sensible drinking. Our customers’ health and safety is always paramount so it was an easy decision to become actively involved in this scheme.”

The local pubs and clubs involved include The Pig and Truffle, The Acorn, The Crown, The Earl of Lichfield, George IV, The Scales, Sammy’s, Après, Lloyds, Paradise Lounge, The Horse and Jockey, The Feathers, Duke of York, The Bald Buck and The King’s Head.

The designated driver will be given a wrist band so they can get free soft drinks all night at any of the participating venues.

Cllr Helen Fisher, Cabinet Member for Community Services at Lichfield District Council, said:

“There are serious problems of alcohol misuse in our society, more often than not putting people at risk of being involved in a drink-drive related incident. The ‘I’ll be Des’ scheme is a way of promoting responsible behaviour and encouraging people going out for the night to have a designated driver instead of drinking and driving.

“I am delighted that a number of prominent local licensed premises have taken on board this initiative again this year and are playing their part in improving road safety for local residents.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.

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Drink driving warning to Lichfield and Burntwood residents
14 years ago

[…] Staffordshire County Councillor for the Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership, Mike Maryon, explained: “The only safe option is not to drink or take drugs if you’re driving. Leave your car at home and take a taxi or bus, or visit one of the many licensed premises across Staffordshire that are supporting the I’ll be Des initiative. […]