Free drinks scheme for designated drivers returns

Customers who inform bar staff they are 'DES' are able to get free draught soft drinks or squash in participating venues

A free soft drinks scheme for designated drivers has been reintroduced in south Wales.

The initiative, run by South Wales Police, will relaunch over the Christmas period until the start of January.

It has already seen more than 80 premises sign up, including 29 in Neath Port Talbot, 24 in Swansea, 23 in Cardiff, seven in the Vale of Glamorgan and one in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

The scheme, first introduced in Wales in 2022, aims to promote responsible drinking and road safety.

Customers who make themselves known to bar staff as the designated driver, or "DES", are given a wristband, enabling them to receive free draught soft drinks or squash.

A similar scheme has been re-introduced across Devon and Cornwall over the festive period.

South Wales Police said it hopes the initiative will "encourage more people to be aware of the very serious consequences of drink driving and the importance of being safe on the roads".

What is the penalty for drink driving?

If you're found to be over the drink-drive limit, and/or driving while impaired by drugs, you can receive:

• a criminal record

• a maximum penalty of six months in prison

• an unlimited fine

• an automatic driving ban of at least one year (three years if you have been convicted twice in 10 years)

Other problems you may face include:

• an endorsement on your driving licence for 11 years

• an increased insurance premium

• if you drive for work, your employer will see your conviction on your licence

• trouble travelling to countries such as the USA

The full list of participating premises can be found on the South Wales Police website.