REVELLERS in Oxford have been classified as being at 'high risk' of drowning while under the influence of alcohol following the release of new statistics.

The city's party-goers are being warned to act responsibly near water during their night out with figures revealing that of the 25 people who accidentally drowned in Oxfordshire over the last five years, eight (32%) were found to have had alcohol in their system.

Local authorities and emergency service are now backing this week's Don’t Drink and Drown campaign, run by the UK’s drowning prevention charity the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK).

Authorities will work with pubs, clubs and restaurants and the universities and colleges across the city to promote safety and responsible drinking over the festive period.

The campaign will be led by the Oxford Water Safety Group.

RLSS UK community drowning prevention coordinator for the Oxford area Hannah Wiggins-Bettles, said: “People tragically die each year because they’ve entered the water with alcohol in their bloodstream, either deliberately or by accident.

"Drinking near or in water can be a dangerous and deadly cocktail.

“We want everyone to have a great time this Christmas and our Don’t Drink and Drown campaign gives essential advice to party-goers to make sure they know how to stay safe when they’re out celebrating.”

Oxford City Council’s lead for a safer Oxford, councillor Tom Hayes, added: "While we have great waterways, they can pose a danger, particularly when any alcohol is involved.

"I would urge people to take steps to get home safely such as never jumping from bridges or entering the water.

"I hope we all have a great festive season, look after ourselves, and look out for our friends.”

Over the last five years there have been 1,581 accidental deaths in the UK and almost 30 per cent of the victims had alcohol in their bloodstream.