ANY motorist involved in an accident or road traffic offence will be breath-tested as part of a new campaign to crack down on drink drivers.

Traffic police have set up regular checkpoints across County Durham and Darlington to catch those over the limit.

The week-long initiative, which started yesterday, involves a pub poster campaign which urges drivers: "Don't play games with your licence this summer.''

Based on a snakes and ladders game, the posters demonstrate the potential pitfalls for anyone tempted to drive after having a drink, and outline the options a sensible driver would take.

Although drinking and driving is an issue throughout the year, incidents generally peak over the festive period and summer months.

The warmer weather tempts people out into the countryside, to pubs or other attractions such as outdoor sporting events, shows, fairs, parties and barbecues.

And while many motorists do the right thing by leaving their car at home when they go out, some make the mistake of driving next morning with too much alcohol still in their system.

"A lot of our planned checks will take place early in the morning. There are still too many drivers behind the wheel affected by the night, or even the day, before,'' said police casualty reduction officer PC Dave Nixon.

"People do the right thing by catching a taxi home or arranging a lift with a designated driver, only to spoil it by getting in their car at seven o'clock the next day.

"The only way to get alcohol from your bloodstream is through time - there is nothing you can do to artificially quicken the process.''

The police crackdown will also target any motorists thought to be under the influence of drugs.

Last year, there were 305 drink-related road accidents in County Durham and Darlington, just over half of which resulted in someone being slightly hurt, seriously injured or killed.

The public are being encouraged to use the Crimestoppers line - 0800 555111 - to report anyone they suspect of taking to the roads while unfit.

Penalties for drink or drug-driving include a maximum six months in prison, a £5,000 fine and a minimum year's ban from the roads.

Causing death by careless driving while under the influence carries a possible prison sentence of 14 years and a two-year ban.

Endorsements for drink-driving remain on a person's licence for 11 years.