THE family of three cyclists who were killed by a drink-driver has been told that the man responsible could be released from prison after serving less than half his sentence.

The news comes as the Government prepares to announce proposals to give prison sentences of up to ten years for Britain's most-dangerous drivers.

However, the relatives say they hold no hatred for the killer and hope that he can rebuild his life.

The tragedy, which happened five days before Christmas in 1997, claimed the lives of Bryan Harrison, 39, his brother Alan, 34, and their 49-year-old brother-in-law, Donald Smith.

About 6pm on a Saturday evening the men, who regularly went cycling, were returning to their homes in Blyth, Northumberland, after a ten-mile ride.

Andrew Armstrong, 35, had been seen driving around the estate, drinking a bottle of vodka and, minutes later, he ploughed into his victims, who all died instantly.

Armstrong admitted causing death by dangerous driving when he appeared at Newcastle Crown Court and was jailed for seven years.

He became a "model prisoner" and is now in Kirklevington Grange, an open prison on Teesside, where he is allowed to work in the community and visit his family.

Armstrong has been told he will be considered for parole in March, less than half way through his sentence.

Prison governor Suzanne Anthony declined to discuss individual cases, but said: "We are in the business of returning people to the community, and we need to do that in such a way as to minimise any further distress to the victims or their families. We always keep them informed."

Peter Harrison, who lost two brothers in the accident, said he does bear any ill-will.

"In my eyes he will always be a man responsible for the deaths of three people," he said.

"But he was also a man who had severe problems. I have sympathy for his family, and keeping him locked up isn't going to change anything."

As part of measures due to be announced by the Government this week, a "two-strikes" rule will be proposed, banning drivers for anything up to ten years if they are involved in a second drink-driving or serious speeding offence.

Lifetime bans will be considered for drivers who break the law three times