A CAMPAIGN to promote responsible drinking has been shortlisted for two national awards.

The Safer Stockton Partnership launched Think B4U Drink at the end of last month, with an array of posters, drinks mats and other publicity, including a no-holds-barred video, broadcast on a giant screen in Yarm High Street on a busy Friday night.

With new licensing hours approaching, key messages of Think B4U Drink include safe drinking limits, statistics and how to steer clear of alcohol-related violence.

It gives advice on how to enjoy a safe night out and get home safely.

The campaign is supported by Stockton Borough Council, police, health and other organisations, as well as many of the area's pubs, bars and nightclubs.

Now the national Responsible Drinks Retailing Awards for 2005 has named the campaign as a finalist in the most responsible local authority category.

The awards ceremony will take place at London's Sheraton Park Lane Hotel on Tuesday.

The campaign has also picked up a second nomination, being shortlisted for the Morning Advertiser Best Pub Awards 2006, in the Pubwatch Award category, which takes place on February 2.

Councillor Paul Kirton, Stockton council's cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "Both of these competitions are considered to be very important in the drinks industry.

"What we're saying is, by all means go out and have a good time, but make sure you know what your own limits are, keep within them and get home safely."

David Kitching, trading standards and licensing manager, said: "The campaign has been received positively both by licensees and the general public and we are now working to expand it even further through off-licences and other retailers."