BIGGER wine measures in pubs are having "serious implications" on drink-driving and health, an alcohol advice service warned.

New research has revealed that people in the region are now drinking wine in glasses which are twice the size they were five years ago.

The smaller 125ml glass is now less popular with drinkers, who prefer the 250ml measure when out socialising in pubs or restaurants.

And customers will also order a full bottle of wine rather than drink it by the glass.

Richard Gidlow, from Blackburn and District Community Alcohol Service, believes the research raises concerns that drinkers, particularly women, could be over doing it.

He said: "People tend to keep check of how much they are drinking by the number of glasses they've had.

"One big glass is the equivalent of two or more smaller ones and so many will be drinking far more than they realise.

"This could have serious implications if people think they have only had two glasses of wine and so are safe to drive."

The survey showed that only four per cent of the pubs questioned used the 125ml glass - compared to 50 per cent just two years ago.

Mr Gidlow added: "Pubs will often have special deals such as buy two glasses of wine and get the rest of the bottle free, meaning alcohol is getting cheaper and cheaper so people are drinking more and more.

"Things like happy hours are also encouraging people to drink to excess"

Derek Howarth, landlord at The Fox and Hounds in Ewood, Blackburn, said licensees got blamed for a lot that wasn't their fault.

He said: "If a supermarket does a two-for-one offer, they don't get accused for making people eat more.

"I can't see that this is any different.

"Drinking in moderation is not a problem and landlords are just trying to make a living.

"It is the individual who is ultimately responsible for what he or she drinks."

The study was carried out by wholesaler King UK.