DRINK-driving is a real danger to everyone - and a clear example of how dangerous it can be is shown by today's case involving Kerri Mills.Victim Vikki Coxon suffered appalling injuries in the accident at the end of August and now has to use a wheelchair as her recovery continues.

DRINK-driving is a real danger to everyone - and a clear example of how dangerous it can be is shown by today's case involving Kerri Mills.

Victim Vikki Coxon suffered appalling injuries in the accident at the end of August and now has to use a wheelchair as her recovery continues.

She does not know if she will ever be able to walk properly again and is preparing for months, if not years, of painful treatment.

Her story should be a cautionary tale for anyone considering getting behind the wheel of a car after having too much to drink.

No one ever thinks they are going to cause an accident when they drive after drinking - the worst most drivers ever think is that they will be caught and lose their licence.

But this story shows exactly why it is so important that drink-drivers are forced off the roads.

In a sense Mills is lucky - Miss Coxon did survive the terrible accident. But the fact remains that Mills' drink-driving has now blighted two lives.

And the sad fact is that such an accident could be the result of any drink-driving at any time - which is why it is so vital that those convicted of this offence should be dealt with harshly by the courts.

Within a few weeks The Evening Star will be launching our annual name and shame campaign aimed at those tempted to drink and drive over the holiday season.

But this is a battle that the police have to fight all the time - and they deserve the support of the public in that fight.

AT A time when there is much concern about the health of the nation and the lack of exercise for many people, it is wonderful to be able to report the 30th anniversary of the JAFFA athletics club in Ipswich.

The club's aim is to make fitness fun and over the last three decades it has encouraged thousands of people to become more active and therefore healthier.

Today it is continuing to go from strength to strength - encouraging more serious amateur athletes as well as encouraging beginners to add a bit more activity to their lives.

Everyone associated with the club deserves congratulations - and can look forward to a successful next 30 years.

ENGLAND'S Euro 2008 hopes may have been dented in Moscow last night, but there is still much for fans of English sport to look forward to over the next few days.

The rugby team is, of course, preparing for the World Cup final in Paris on Saturday - with Suffolk heroes Dan Hipkiss and Peter Richards being part of the big build-up.

And 24 hours later motor-racing fans will be cheering on Hertfordshire lad Lewis Hamilton as he tries to win the Formula One crown at the end of his debut season.

Last night's result may have been disappointing - especially after the first half lead - but Russia still have to win in Israel to deny England a place in the finals . . . and as Steve Maclaren's team found earlier this year, that is not a simple task.