A COUNCIL is putting its staff behind the wheel as part of a hard-hitting campaign to stop drink driving.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council is supporting Cleveland Police's None for the Road campaign by involving staff and workers in the offensive.

This week, workers have been testing their skills at the controls of a remote-controlled car. Each visitor to the session is asked to wear "beer goggles", which simulate the effects of drink, adding to the challenge of controlling the model car.

Councillor Eric Empson, said: "It is vitally important that our staff and members are aware of the message we are trying to put across. We want them all to set a good example."

The council's road safety manager, Mike Hall, said: "Drink-drive figures both nationally and locally are on the increase and we want to do as much as we can to educate people about the dangers.

"We are also aiming to set up these roadshows for the public later this month."