Britain’s first motorway pub has opened – but could this encourage drink driving?

J D Wetherspoon has opened the first motorway pub in Britain, a move which has been met with criticism by people who say this could encourage motorists to drink and drive.

Designated drivers? Many are concerned that motorway pubs could increase drink driving

J D Wetherspoon has opened the first motorway pub in Britain. The Hope and Champion is situated at Extra services on the M40 in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire and is open from 4am until 1am; however, it's only licensed to sell alcohol from 9am to 1am.

This news has been met with criticism by people who say this could tempt motorists to drink and drive.

Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, said: "Most drivers are sensible, but you have to question a policy that encourages drivers to pull off to take a break and then offers them up a pint."

A spokesman for J D Wetherspoon said: "We believe the majority of people that use the pub to drink will be people that aren't driving - coach parties or people travelling with others.

"We won't be asking them whether they are driving. It's up to them."

We won't be asking them whether they are driving. It's up to them."

The road safety charity Brake has said that, each month in the UK, 23 people are killed and 108 people are seriously injured by motorists over the drink drive limit. In 2011, there was a 12% increase in the number of road fatalities caused by people who were over the limit.

J D Wetherspoon have over 800 pubs and more than 23,000 members of staff throughout the UK. They have been trading since 1979, and also serve non-alcoholic beverages and a range of food in their establishments.

It is worth noting that the pub can only be accessed if you leave the motorway. Drinking establishments that are actually on the motorway would not be granted a licence under current licensing laws.

If you have a long car journey planned this winter, ensure your car is all set for the trip with our winter driving checklist. (And if you need to stop for a beverage, we'd suggest you opt for a soft drink!)

View the winter driving checklist