POLICE are launching a campaign in Darlington tomorrow (Saturday, March 7) warning against residents becoming a “dead drunk”.

Between 2011 and 2013, eight pedestrians who died in traffic accidents in the Durham Constabulary area had their judgement impaired by alcohol.

A further 63 were injured in the same period when they too were affected by drink.

To help combat the problem, road policing officers and others are staging a series of events in the town centre to raise awareness.

These include a mock collision involving a ‘drunk’ pedestrian and a vehicle, as well as handing out information to the public.

Promotional items such as wallets and keyrings bearing the #deaddrunk logo will be handed out and many of the town’s bars are supporting the campaign by agreeing to use beer mats and advertising material in their premises.

Staff from NECA (North East Council on Addictions), County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue, North East Ambulance Service and the police cadets scheme will also be taking part in the events which run from noon to 4pm.