HERTFORDSHIRE people are being called to give a pint rather than drink one in a new campaign which has been launched by the county council's Road Safety Unit and The National Blood Service.

The initiative is intended to reduce the number of deaths and injuries on Hertfordshire's roads which drain the county's blood bank supplies.

Executive member for the environment Councillor Derrick Ashley said: "The simple message is don't drink and drive.

"There are still drivers out there who insist on this stupidity despite knowing their selfish behaviour could end up killing someone.

"Any alcohol, even a small amount, can affect people's driving. There are no fail safe guides as to what you can drink to remain under the limit, so people should avoid alcohol completely if they are driving."

A spokesman for The National Blood Service said: "Blood is vital to saving patient's lives and we all expect it to be in plentiful supply.

"This is why we are always keen to encourage new donors to come forward and help us collect the 10,000 units of bloods we need to supply hospitals.

"While traffic accidents remain, we must ensure that we have tools such as blood to treat the victims."

More information about where to give blood is available from http://www.blood.co.uk or on 0845 711711.