POLICE are launching their seasonal anti-drink-driving campaign today.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas and the New Year, officers will be out in force trying to catch drink-drivers.

Police officers will also be giving out the message that there will be 18 presents left unopened this Christmas — 18 people died on roads around Greater Manchester in drink-driving incidents this year.

To reduce drink-driving during the festive season, officers will be increasing spot checks of drivers at peak times and testing for alcohol and drugs.

Chief Inspector Haydn Roberts said: “When we catch someone drink -driving that is just the beginning.

“A person caught drink-driving could lose their car, probably their job, their home, they may lose their girlfriend or boyfriend, and they may even lose their liberty. Ultimately, they could take someone’s life.

“There are 18 families out there this Christmas who have lost someone during the year, either because they were drinking and then drove, or because they were killed by a drink-driver. I want drivers to think about all the consequences and find an alternative way to get home this festive season.”

If you see someone drink-driving this Christmas call Greater Manchester police on 0161 872 5050 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.