CHRISTMAS party-goers are being warned they could lose their jobs as well as their driving licences if they are caught drink-driving.

Avon and Somerset Police are naming and shaming drink-drivers over the festive season.

Anyone in the force area charged with a drink or drug driving offence will have their details put online by the police and the News – readers can view the details at chardandilminsternews.co.uk every Monday into the New Year.

Already in the first week 11 people in Avon and Somerset have been named. Paul Thomas, beat manager at Chard Police Station, said in his time as an officer he had seen people lose their jobs and marriage because of a drink-driving conviction.

He added: “Driving while under the influence of drink or drugs is always a significant danger but at Christmas the risks are even more prevalent with darker nights, bad weather and, sadly, more people taking the risk by drinking and then getting behind the wheel.

‘‘Each year we stop hundreds of people who are clearly not in a fit state to drive through drink or drugs.

“The 2014 campaign is about hammering home the message that on a daily basis people across South Somerset are risking theirs and other people's lives and that drinkdriving has extremely serious consequences.’’

A conviction for driving while under the influence of drink and drugs will lead to a criminal record, a driving ban of at least a year and a fine up to £5,000.

Throughout the month, police will run vehicle stop-check operations, targeted patrols and awareness-raising events in pubs and bars. ‘‘

The effect of a drink driving conviction can be devastating. In my time as an officer, I have seen people lose their job, career and marriage.

“If you're going out to drink any amount please leave your car keys at home. It's simply not worth the risk,” PC Thomas added.

If you believe someone may be drink or drug driving, call police on 101 or text ‘drunk’ and details to 81819.