MOTORISTS in Bucks are being warned ot to succumb to the temptation of a summertime drink before getting back behind the wheel as beer garden weather begins to return to the south east.

A leading road safety charity is advising road-users to leave their cars behind if they think they may be likely to enjoy a spot of alcohol on a social outing.

Peter Rodger, chief examiner at The Institute of Advanced Motorists, said: "Summer is a time of BBQs, jam-packed beer gardens and festivals. But it sees a rise in drink-drive casualties too.

"Enjoy yourself and leave the car at home if you plan to celebrate with a drink."

He has offered the following tips on resisting the temptation to drink and drive.

* It's better to be safe than sorry. If you’ve had a few at a summer celebration, don’t try to calculate whether or not you are over the limit. It’s always best to make it "none for the road".

* Remember home measures are often larger than what you’d get in a pub.

* Many crashes involve pedestrians who have been drinking and drivers who haven’t. When walking home after a drink or two, take care and pay attention to your surroundings. When you’re driving, be aware of pedestrians who may be drunk and unpredictable - especially late at night - and be prepared for them to step out without warning.

* If you drive to a party and drink when you didn’t expect to, don’t risk it. Get a taxi or arrange for a friend or family member to collect you.

* A drinking session the night before might put you over the legal limit the following day. Keep this in mind and organise alternative travel plans for the next morning.

* If you are involved in a road accident you will be breathalysed. Don’t risk it, or somebody else’s mistake could become your problem – being hit from behind while sitting at a red traffic light could get you banned.

* Ignore peer pressure. Friends may try to persuade you to risk driving rather than paying for a taxi – but it is your licence, liberty and safety that is at stake.