City stars kick off 'I'll Be Des' drive

The 'I'll Be Des' tag is a reference to the aim of the campaign which encourages football fans to get behind the UK's biggest designated driver scheme.

It calls on fans to designate a non-drinking driver whenever they are going out to a match and planning to have a drink, whether it be at the ground or in a pub.

Hundreds of pubs across the region will also be spreading the 'I'll Be Des' message through bar staff, posters and promotional activity.

In supporting the campaign, York City stand alongside Premiership clubs Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Sheffield Wednesday, and Nationwide League teams Barnsley, Grimsby Town, Rotherham United, Darlington and Hartlepool United.

The organisation behind the Des scheme is the Portman Group, whose purpose is to help prevent misuse of alcohol and promote sensible drinking.

Jean Coussins, director of the Portman Group, said of the scheme: "This is an excellent example of a partnership that will really make a difference.

"Recent research has shown that almost half, 47 per cent, of fans under 30 visit the pub before a match. And although drink driving is in no way a particular problem with football, the core of football supporters are in the age groups most likely to be involved in drink-drive accidents.

"Our message today, though, is not just for football supporters. All drivers should take their turn at being Des."

The 'I'll Be Des' campaign has attracted Government support from the Sports Minister and Road Safety Minister.

Sports Minister Kate Hoey said: "Top performers at whatever sport know that drink can affect their game.

"I am delighted that so many of them are backing this campaign. Drinking and driving don't mix and the more people that are aware of this message the better."

Road Safety Minister Lord Whitty said: "Drink drive is a year-round problem and the Portman Group's 'I'll Be Des' campaign could play a vital role in changing the behaviour of some of those most at risk."