to take advantage of a programme that aims to keep drunk drivers off the road.

Transport Minister the Hon. Maxwell Burgess officially opened the Designated Driver Programme in conjunction with the Bermuda Road Safety Council.

Participating establishments will serve free soft drinks to anyone wearing a designated driver button and who is also sober and not seen drinking alcohol.

The pins can be obtained at all gas stations.

Mr. Burgess said: "The designated driver programme has introduced to Bermudians the option of designating a driver.

"We are thrilled with the increased participation from the business sector this year, particularly the endorsement by the Bermuda Hotel Association. We are confident that it will be a bigger success each year.'' Mr. Burgess also thanked Esso Bermuda and the Shell Company for assisting with the distribution of the pins and Dunkley's Dairy for donating the buckets in which the buttons are placed at the gas stations.

Thirteen establishments have joined the programme. They are Ascot's, Anchorage Lounge, Cock 'N' Feather, Coconut Rock, Robin Hood, Rum Runners, Oasis Nightclub, Marriott Castle Harbour, O'Malley's Pub on the Square, Show Bizz Restaurant, Hubie's Bar, MR Onions and Henry VIII.