Sober drivers rewarded with pub trip

Townsville police are taking a novel approach to tackling drink driving, rewarding teetotalling motorists with a trip to the pub.

However, only food - and not alcoholic drinks - are on the cops.

As part of a week-long campaign, drivers who record a blood alcohol reading of zero can win a $50 bistro voucher for one of 21 licensed venues in town.

Townsville Senior Sergeant John Mahony said there was some criticism over the plan but stressed the vouchers couldn't buy alcohol.

"It's about encouraging safe and responsible behaviour," he said.

"We want to involve the community and work together and I think we could see other regions take on similar measures in future."

Mr Mahoney says police ran a similar campaign two years ago but there were no cases of people supplementing their meal with a few beers and then getting behind the wheel.

The vouchers were supplied by the Townsville Liquor Accord as part of a partnership with police.