FOOTBALL fans are being urged to keep the roads alcohol-free during the World Cup, which gets underway today.

Somerset County Council’s road safety team is raising awareness of drink-driving as many venture out to catch games during the tournament.

Avon and Somerset Police’s drink driving operation, Operation Tonic, will also be in force for the duration of the World Cup.

Councillor John Woodman, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for highways, said: “Drink driving puts the lives of everyone who uses the road in danger, and the consequences of a drink driving conviction are far reaching.

"Keeping the roads alcohol free will help to ensure that the county’s roads are a safe place for everyone. So remember, if you’re driving it’s always safer to have none for the road - and come on England!”

Nationally in 2016 there were 240 fatalities on the roads attributed to drink-driving.

Drinking can affect the ability to drive safely, and alcohol affects people differently depending on a number of factors, including:

• weight

• age

• sex and metabolism (the rate your body uses energy)

• what you’ve eaten recently

• the type and amount of alcohol you’re drinking

• stress levels

If convicted of drink-driving the penalties are severe and can include:

• A minimum 12-month driving ban

• A criminal record

• A hefty fine

• Up to six months in prison

• An endorsement on your licence for 11 years