Ahead of New Year celebrations tonight police are warning of the dangers of 'pre-loading'.

Pre-loading involves drinking alcohol on private premises prior to going for a night out at a pub or club and drinking more alcohol.

Research has shown that people who preload are two-and-a-half times as likely to become involved in violent crime or injure themselves.

West Mercia Police are urging people to think twice about the consequences of drinking before they go for a night out.

Another study has shown that preloading does not even save you money because you end up drinking just as much while you are out.

Extra officers will be on duty this weekend to help keep new year revellers safe.