Birchgrove pupils tackle drink drive campaign

Pupils in a Swansea school are leading calls for motorists in South Wales to avoid alcohol when driving.

Six Birchgrove Comprehensive School pupils have created a three minute film highlighting the dangers and consequences of drinking and driving.

The short but hard-hitting film features school pupils Imogen Morgan-Ford, Jack Barnes and Sam Thomas and was created by Georgia Thomas, Amber Thomas and Aimee Robinson.

In the film, two friends are seen growing up together until tragedy strikes when they are involved in a fatal road accident involving a driver under the influence of alcohol.

The film has earned the group £500 for their school after it was selected as the regional winner in the annual All Wales Christmas Drink Drive campaign.

The campaign, which has been launched this week by Road Safety Wales aims to encourage motorists across the country to leave the car at home if they are planning to enjoy a seasonal drink this Christmas.

Swansea Council’s Road Safety Team has been working with local police and the school to help pass on the safety messages.

David Hopkins, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transportation in Swansea Council, said: “Drinking alcohol and driving can lead to tragic consequences for families.

“Christmas is a time when lots of people are out visiting family and friends and celebrating the festivities. Our message is simple – avoid alcohol if you are driving and make sure you keep yourself and others safe.

“This campaign helps to get across the important safety messages not only to motorists, but also to young people, many of whom will be learning to drive in the future.”

Samantha Anderson, Media studies teacher at Birchgrove Comprehensive School, said: “Our video shows two friends growing up together, enjoying life until an accident causes the death of one of them. Hopefully the film will educate young people about the dangers of drinking or doing drugs and driving.”