THE number of accidents in the North-East caused by drivers who were over the legal alcohol limit has increased, it has been revealed.

In all but one of the region's police force areas, incidents of drivers failing a breath test following an accident went up.

Between 2002 and last year, Durham Police's figures rose from 122 to 161 and Cleveland Police's from 86 to 110.

Only Northumbria Police saw a decrease - from 271 to 266.

The Department of Transport compiled the figures for its Christmas anti-drink-driving campaign.

Penny Marshall, head of road safety for the Government Office for the North- East, said that despite the stigma associated with drink-driving, some people were failing to get the message.

She said: "There are new drivers coming on to our roads every year as people reach the age of 17 and look to have their own licence and their own vehicle.

"Often, it is younger drivers, sadly, too often young males, who think they are somehow immune from this problem.

"There is no failsafe guide as to how to stay under the legal alcohol limit or how much you can drink and drive safely.

"The bottom line message is simple - if you are going out for a drink, then don't drive."