People will get to see first-hand the devastation drink-driving can cause.

As part of Operation Holly, Hampshire Constabulary’s Christmas drink-drive campaign, police are using a car wreck to bring the message into town centres.

The wreck will be on display, accompanied by police, the fire service and the county council, in the car park of the Andover Tesco superstore on Friday, December 9.

PC Andrew Wright from the Whitchurch Roads Policing unit said: “The car we use is provided by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and shows the kind of damage drink-driving can cause.

“We’ve been taking it around Hampshire throughout December and so far the response has been very positive.

“It’s similar to wrecks I’ve seen when I’ve been called to collisions caused by drink-driving.

“I don’t think people really appreciate just how dangerous it is to get behind the wheel under the influence. As soon as you mention the word ‘death’ to them, however, it stops them in their tracks. Being able to talk about real examples and show them the damage really brings the message home.

“This is what we as the emergency services, both police and the fire service, deal with and yet these collisions could be prevented.

“If you suspect that someone is drink-driving, especially if it’s your friend or a loved one, lets us know because by doing so you could help to save a life.”

If you suspect someone has been drinking and is over the limit and getting behind the wheel, you can text police on 80999. Tell us where the car is, give us the registration, and we will do the rest.

If you see someone that you suspect is drink driving or driving whilst drug impaired, you can ring us on 999.