A leading alcohol charity has advised residents of Dumbarton and the Vale of how to 'stay safe and sensible' during the impending festive holidays.

Dumbarton Area Council on Alcohol (DACA) wants people to have fun, but also to be aware of the dangers too much booze can cause.

They suggest taking simple steps, including not drinking on an empty stomach, to sometimes treat yourself to some tasty non-alcoholic alternatives instead of automatically reaching for the booze, and also to give your body time to recover by enjoying at least three alcohol-free days a week.

They have put together a 10-point plan to help people drink less.

Mags Mackenzie, DACA chief executive, said: "Festive celebrations can seem like one long drinking session which starts around mid-December and runs well into the New Year.

"Good intentions are quickly forgotten as work’s nights out lead on to partying with friends, Christmas day cocktails and Boxing Day hangover cures - all involving more alcohol.

"So if you feel your liver is pleading for some time out, here are our Top 10 sensible drinking tips to stay safe this festive season."

Mags also reminded people that if they are concerned about their drinking, they can get in touch for support.

She added: "If 2020 feels like the year you want to start cutting back or taking a break from booze altogether, please give DACA a call.

"Our team offers a range of support services every week-day and most evenings from our premises in Dumbarton and Clydebank.

"So why not make your New Year’s resolution to give us a call on 01389 731456 or 0141 9520881 - we’re here to help and would love to hear from you."

1. Treat yourself to some tasty non-alcoholic alternatives. It doesn’t have to be fizzy soft drinks - there are plenty of alcohol-free lagers, wines even spirits to choose from these days.

2. Have at least three alcohol-free days during the week – your body needs it to recover.

3. Avoid having a drink before going out and try joining the party later so you have less drinking time.

4. Don’t drink on an empty stomach – have a meal before you start drinking, then drink slowly and pace your drinks by spacing them out with soft drinks.

5. If you’re contemplating having a drink, leave the car at home. The current drink/drive limits mean there really is no safe drinking limit before you get behind the wheel.

6. Don’t drive too soon after a heavy night it takes time for your body to process alcohol so you could still be over the limit the following morning.

7. If you do over-indulge leave the cooking to someone else and make sure all cooking appliances, candles and festive lights are switched off before going to sleep.

8. Treat yourself to a drink-free day out, either with friends and family or solo for some peace and quiet. There are no shortage of walks and cycle paths right here on our doorstep. Or if the great outdoors is not your thing how about a trip to the cinema, a spa or museum? There are lots of websites offering cut price ‘experience’ vouchers.

9. Prepare a reason why you are not drinking if you think friends or family will put you under pressure.

10. Offer to be the nominated driver in return for free soft drinks – it’s a win-win for everyone.