Ads for Red Bull on petrol pump nozzles with the message ‘keep your motor running’ were unlikely to be taken literally advertising watchdogs have said.

The response by the Advertising Standard Authority was to complaints which said that not switching off an engine when filling up with fuel would be "irresponsible".

However, the ASA acknowledged that the ads which showed a picture of a smiley character at a steering wheel, were used alongside in-store material and consumer leaflets to explain the "energising benefits" of Red Bull for drivers.

Complainants said the advert’s metaphor of keeping drivers awake while driving was unclear.

Red Bull noted that the soft drink prevented accidents due to tiredness since it helped keep drivers alert.