Designated driver scheme returns for Christmas

Tuesday, 3 December 2024 at 11:36

South Wales Police has relaunched its popular scheme for designated drivers over the festive season.

Twelve pubs and bars in the Vale have signed up to offer free soft drinks to those who abstain from alcohol to take the wheel on a night out.

The Vale was one of the first areas of Wales to take up the DES scheme when it was introduced in 2022.

Now, more than 120 licenced premises across South Wales are involved - with drivers who make themselves known to bar staff given a wristband entitling them to free draught soft drinks or squash.

South Wales Police say the overall aim of the scheme is to promote responsible drinking with road safety in mind.

A spokesperson added: "We know it can sometimes be a burden being the designated driver but we hope this scheme will encourage more people to be aware of the very serious consequences of drink driving and the importance of being safe on the roads."

The licenced premies taking part in the DES scheme this year include:

The Bear's Head, Penarth
Hickmans, Penarth,
Sully Inn, Sully
The Cwm Talwg, Barry
The Park, Barry,
The White Hart, Llantwit Major
Tudor Tavern, Llantwit Major
The Blacksmiths Arms, Llanames
Golden Mile Inn, Corntown
Watermill, Ogmore-by-Sea
Three Golden Cups, Southerndown
The Fox, St Brides Major

28 pubs, bars and hotels have signed up across Cardiff - including 16 city centre premises such as The Philarmonic, Brewhouse, Walkabout and the Retro Lounge, along with The Dock and Esquires Coffee in the Mermaid Quay area of the Bay.

An interactive map has been published, featuring all of the participating venues across South Wales taking part in the scheme.

Any other licenced premises interested in joining the scheme should contact their local licensing team.

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