Just one drink could be too much for motorists over the summer - that is the message from police and road-safety groups. A survey published today reveals nearly half of drivers over 25 admit to having got behind the wheel after having a drink.

Just one drink could be too much for motorists over the summer - that is the message from police and road-safety groups.

A survey published today reveals nearly half of drivers over 25 admit to having got behind the wheel after having a drink.

A spokesman for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents said: “You not only risk losing your licence but also potentially tragic consequences.”

Police pledged to take a tough stance on drink-drivers, saying summer is like the Christmas period which is renowned for a peak in alcohol-related accidents.

Last month, more than 2,500 people in Norfolk were stopped and asked to complete breath tests - 113 were arrested and charged.

A Norfolk police spokesman said: “People are always very aware of drink-driving at Christmas but in the summer there is also a tendency to drink at social occasions. These are normal, law-abiding, hard-working people who go to barbecues and summer parties and have just had one too many.

“The safest option for all drivers is not to drink any alcohol and then drive. Do not drink and do not become a statistic.

“You not only risk your life but those of other innocent road-users and the penalties are hefty. If you're convicted of drink- driving, you'll have a criminal record, you can go to prison, you can be banned from driving, you could be fined heavily, you could lose your job and your insurance costs will increase.”

The survey, by Direct Line, found middle-aged drivers are most likely to drink and drive.

Kevin Clinton, head of road safety for RoSPA, said: “When it's hot, people tend to drink more and a proportion will inevitably end up drinking and driving.

“These figures marry up with research we have carried out in the past - we have seen a significant increase in drink-drive accidents in recent years.

“Motorists also need to consider the fact they are often dehydrated in the heat and alcohol can have an exaggerated effect.

“If you are going to drink, make alternative arrangements such as public transport, taxis or designated drivers.”