That's the message from the police and the Department of Transport's road safety unit, which launched its Christmas anti drink-drive campaign on Monday.

This year's campaign focuses on a series of cartoons which comes with the tag line Booze, choose or lose.

It shows revellers out drinking and enjoying the festive period, the best option being for them to take a bus or taxi home, and the consequences if they get caught drink-driving.

Member for highways David Quirk MHK said: 'You may have only had one or two drinks but even a small amount of alcohol can affect a person's ability to drive safely.

'If you drink and drive you are taking a massive risk and face prosecution from the police - or worse, endangering your own life and the lives of innocent people.

'We are asking all motorists this year to choose to take public transport when going to Christmas parties, visiting relatives or just going out for a few drinks to avoid being stopped for drink-driving.'

He added: 'Even the morning after, your night out you may still be over the legal limit for driving. Ensure that you are complying with the law by taking the bus or a taxi to work.'

Deputy Chief Constable Gary Roberts warned that anyone drink-driving will be caught – and will then appear in court the next day.

The penalties for drinking and driving are severe and include a fine of up to £5,000, a ban, which also applies in the UK, and a possible prison sentence.

The cost of insurance will also rise and offenders are likely to be ordered to retake their driving test.

During the campaign the road safety team will be reinforcing the message across the Isle of Man and a number of radio adverts will be transmitted.

Last year, 13 people were arrested and seven people charged with drink-driving.