Plymouth pubs and bars work with police to tackle drink spiking

Pubs across Plymouth are working with police to try and tackle drink spiking.

Spiking is when a drug or alcohol is added to a person's drink without them knowing about it.

In a UK-first trial, test kits will be supplied to pubs and bars across the city.

The pilot will be run in association with Best Bar None and local bars in Plymouth.

If a drink is found to contain a dangerous substance, the customer will be taken to a safe place and the police will be called.

Response officers will be issued with urine testing kits to enable them to secure evidence.

The initial test period will last for three months and is to run until 23rd June 2019.

If successful the project could be rolled out across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset.

Drink spiking is illegal and can result in a minimum of 10 years in prison for anyone who is found guilty of doing it.

For information about the project visit Best Bar None.

You can also find more information about drink spiking, how to avoid it and what to do if you think have been a victim on the Devon and Cornwall Police website.