Try a mocktail this New Year's Eve

By James Batchelor, Dec 31, 2012

The Department for Transport has produced a number of alcohol-free "mocktail" recipes to appeal to those who are designated drivers on nights out.

It's all part of efforts to cut down on drink driving this New Year's Eve.

It has produced a number of recipes - from a Berry Breezer to a Piña- Banana - and says they are "easy to make at home and provide a festive alternative".

The department is also warning party-goers to plan their way home in advance so they can celebrate the New Year in style, not in the cells.

A hard-hitting television advert highlighting the consequences of drink driving has been shown throughout December as part of the Department for Transport's THINK! drink drive campaign.

Road safety minister Stephen Hammond said: "Our message is clear: have a great New Year's Eve, don't risk the consequences of drink driving.

"If you get behind the wheel after drinking you risk losing your licence as well as facing a fine and even a prison sentence."

Last year, drivers aged between 20 and 24 failed more breath tests than any other age group.

The Department for Transport is currently consulting on a package of tough measures to crack down on drink drivers. This includes removing drink drivers' rights to demand a blood or urine test. This is because evidence shows it is used as a delaying tactic by drivers caught over the limit.

The department has also supported Coke's Designated Driver Scheme, which offered buy one get one free soft drinks in pubs around the country throughout December.

Here are the mocktail recipes...

Berry Breezer

Half a fresh lime
Two teaspoons of brown sugar
100 ml of cranberry juice
50 ml of pineapple juice
Tonic water

Crush the lime and sugar together, add the juices, shake and strain over ice.

Top with tonic and garnish with a lime wedge.

Elderflower Spritzer

50 ml of elderflower cordial
Three lemon wedges
Half a teaspoon of brown sugar
Soda water
Mint to garnish

Crush the sugar and lemon wedges together, add the elderflower cordial, shake, top with soda, stir and add more ice as required. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of mint.

Winter Warmer

75 ml of apple juice
75 ml of cranberry juice
2.5 teaspoons of honey
Lemon and cloves for garnish

Heat the apple and cranberry juice together for one minute in the microwave, stir in the honey and serve immediately in a heated mug or handled glass. Garnish with a clove-studded lemon wheel.

Citrus Mock-tini