BOOZING football fans are being warned to leave their cars at home or risk getting caught drink-driving by police.

Motorists who knock back their pints during the World Cup will be red carded by eagle-eyed officers.

They have vowed to be extra-vigilant with special patrols watching out for suspected drink-drivers on Bolton's roads during June when many football supporters will be packing into pubs as early as 7.30am.

Thousands of people are expected to watch the games in pubs before getting into their cars and driving to work.

Drink-drivers found over the limit will get penalties of at least a one year ban and a large fine. Sgt Kevin Donnellan, of Bolton's

police traffic unit, said: "If people are going to be drinking early in the morning then of course we are going to react to that. The answer is simple: Don't drink and drive."

Many of Bolton's pubs will be open during the World Cup. Key games involving England and the Republic of Ireland will be played at 7.30am, 10.30am or 12.30pm.

Sgt Donnellan said: "The general Home Office guideline is for people to stick to two pints of normal strength beer, but many people are now drinking stronger brews."

About 18 per cent of drivers are arrested the morning after a drinking session.

Former magistrate Graham Wynn has also warned drivers to be careful.

He said: "We are concerned people may not realise that having just the one drink at 10am while watching the World Cup can tip them over the limit if they've been drinking the night before.

"That is when people will get caught out. They won't realise they are still over the limit."