DRINKING responsibly and personal safety are two of the key aims of a county-wide campaign this summer.

Devised by the county’s Rape Reduction Programme Board, whose members include licensees and Hertfordshire Constabulary, the drive is on to help partygoers better understand the dangers of excessive drinking.

With more than two-thirds of all reported rape and serious sexual assault allegations involving alcohol, the campaign seeks to educate young people about the dangers of excessive drinking and the importance of getting home safely after a night out.

It also hopes to highlight the serious consequences behind the ‘no consent, no sex’ message.

In the coming weeks, officers will be based at some of the busiest bars, pubs and clubs across the county offering crime prevention and safety advice.

Chief Inspector Dave Newsome said: "We are working with pubs, bars and clubs along with other partner agencies to help educate people on how they can take some common sense measures to ensure that they can enjoy their night out in safety.

"We are also aiming to inform them of the serious consequences of non-consensual sex and where people can find support if needed."

As part of the campaign, an educational video has been uploaded onto the constabulary's page on Facebook and Youtube site, and a teaching pack has been prepared for police school liaison officers working across the county with support material and advice.