Vale of Glamorgan pubs offer free soft drinks to drivers

The initiative, which is part of a popular scheme by South Wales Police, aims to promote responsible drinking and road safety.

It will run until the start of January.

The scheme has already seen more than 80 premises sign up across South Wales.

Designated drivers, who abstain from drinking alcohol to act as the responsible driver, can make themselves known to bar staff of a number of pubs as the designated driver or 'DES'.

They will then be given a wristband, enabling them to receive free draught soft drinks or squash.

The Vale of Glamorgan venues that have signed up to the scheme are The Bear's Head (Penarth), Hickmans (Penarth), Sully Inn (Sully), Cwmtalwg (Barry), The Park (Barry), The Old White Hart (Llantwit Major), and Tudor Tavern (Llantwit Major).

A South Wales Police spokesperson said: "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 initiative also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of alcohol consumption.

There is no way to know how much you can drink and stay under the limit, as it can depend on your weight, age, metabolism, the amount of food you've eaten, and other factors.

The police also highlighted the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, stating that it is extremely dangerous and can affect your driving in numerous ways.

The force added: "Alcohol and drugs can also create a false confidence which can lead to an increase in risk-taking behaviour, which puts your life and the lives of others in danger."

A number of venues across Cardiff, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot have also signed up to the scheme, with the full list available on the South Wales Police website.

The scheme is open to all licensed premises, and those interested in joining are encouraged to contact their local licensing team.