|
Drivers
Indulging In More Than The Festive Spirity
MERSEYSIDE Police are
continuing to warn drivers intent on celebrating the festive season
to leave their car keys at home this Christmas Week and over the New
Year.
Following the launch of its Christmas drink and drug drive campaign
at the start of December 2011, the Force has carried out tests on
more than 5,000 motorists suspected of drinking or taking drugs
across Merseyside.
Of those tested, a number of drivers have been arrested on suspicion
of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Inspector Dave Bell, from the Roads Policing Department, said:-
"While the vast majority of drivers have a responsible attitude I
am concerned that a number have ignored our message and continue to
drink or take drugs and then get behind the wheel at the obvious
risk to themselves and others. I would like to remind drivers that
even a small amount of alcohol can adversely affect their driving
skills, their judgement of speed and distance. Alcohol can stay in a
person's system for several hours and can continue to affect them
even the following morning."
Throughout December officers are carrying out the enforcement and
education campaign throughout Merseyside. Have you seen
any? Let us know by emailing us to
news24@southportreporter.com with the location and time
you spotted it.
Insp Bell added:- "Our Officers are also trained to recognise
the signs of drug taking you may be required to take a roadside
test, which may lead to your arrest and prosecution. If you receive
a conviction for drink or drug driving you will lose your licence,
which may result in not only a fine or imprisonment you may also
lose your job and income. If you kill or seriously injure someone
while you are behind the wheel and your driving has been impaired by
drink or drugs you will inevitably face a long jail sentence. I urge
people to think about the consequences that will have on your future
and your family not to mention the suffering you will inflict on the
loved ones of the person whose future you have taken away. This New
Year go and have a good time and celebrate this festive period but
do so sensibly and use alternative transport such as buses, trains
or taxis or use a designated non-drinking driver."
Merseytravel have a number of free Saveaway cards on offer to those
who visit the 'Travelwise'
website.
Throughout the campaign Merseyside Police has been working in
partnership with other organisations to educate and deter drivers.
Students at Knowsley Community College have produced a film and
hard-hitting posters in a bid to persuade drivers not to get behind
the wheel as part of a competition held by the Force.
The joint winners of the competition were 16 year olds Elliot
Blayney and Lisa Moore who both produced posters focusing on social
media. The pair were each awarded five driving lessons.
The film, "Go On...It's Christmas," can be viewed on
YouTube.
The penalties for driving while over the limit or whilst unfit
through drink or drugs are:-
► Minimum 12 months driving ban (3
years for a 2nd offence within 10 years)
► Criminal record
► A drink drive endorsement will remain on
your licence for 11 years
► Fine of up to £5,000
|
 |
REaD
all over the land
Image kindly supplied by Ste Jones:
kt8photography.co.uk
THE Vikings has revealed its 2012 away kit
which will be worn in the 1st season of our return to Super League.
Manufactured by O'Neill's Irish Sportswear and incorporating the
latest technology in both its design and construction, the
impressive red and white colour scheme on the all-new playing
apparel pays homage to the alternative strip once worn by Widnes
RLFC in many of its successes of yesteryear.
For years, Widnes supporters have worn replica jerseys on the
terraces complete with the name of their favourite player, however
in a unique twist on this particular trend, in 2012 the Vikings'
players will be wearing shirts adorning the name of every Viking
Stronghold member. This means, whenever the Vikings' players are on
their travels, their supporters will always be there with them!
Not only is this an innovative approach to
proceedings, it also further enhances the family bond between the
club and its ever-growing supporter base.
The 2012 away kit features Stobart as its main sponsor across the
chest with the logos of each of the clubs business partners; Halton
Borough Council, Medicash, Hattons Solicitors, Ultimate Sports
Nutrition, Maltacourt, DW Sports Fitness, Reel Cinemas,
ApolloBET.com and Elonex, also present. Further to this, the
‘Love Your Balls' emblem of the Vikings' 2012 Official
Charity of the Year partner, The Mark Gorry Foundation, is also
incorporated. The new shirt will be accompanied by red shorts with
white detailing, plus red and white socks, incorporating the words
‘Viking Stronghold'. The Vikings premiered the
new design in the pre-season Boxing Day derby at the Halliwell Jones
Stadium against near-neighbours Warrington Wolves.
Commenting on the new look kit, Vikings head coach Denis Betts
said:- "Everyone who follows the Vikings is aware of the
fantastic history and heritage associated with the club. I've no
doubt the current crop of players will also recognize just how much
it means to follow in the footsteps of players who have worn similar
coloured kits and delivered silverware over the years. Having the
names of every Viking Stronghold member on the shirts is a great
idea and every time the lads wear one in 2012, they'll be doing so
knowing they have the full support of our fans behind them."
The initial batch of replica items will go on general sale at the
Vikings Superstore situated on Liebig Court in Widnes town centre on
Saturday, 21 January 2012.
|
