Anti spiking campaign launched in Ledbury

Ledbury Alcohol and Drug Forum have launched an anti-spiking campaign to warn local people about the dangers of drink spiking.

The Forum, which works to tackle local substance misuse and alcohol issues, will supply 4,000 specially designed bottle stoppers to pubs in and around the town. It hopes the project will encourage people to think twice before leaving their drink unattended.

According to statistics from the national "Roofie Foundation" helpline, which provides help and information for victims, over 6,000 women and men have reported being the victim of drink spiking since the foundation was started up in 1997. It is thought these figures are likely to be well below the actual number of incidents as drink spiking often goes unreported.

The Forum, run through Herefordshire Community Safety and Drugs Partnership, has developed this project in response to a national increase in the number of drink spiking incidents. Ledbury is not a hotspot area for drink spiking but the Forum want to ensure that people are aware of the potential dangers and how to avoid their drink being spiked.

The special bottle stoppers, known as "spikeys," help prevent drinks from being spiked in pubs, clubs and at parties. This brightly coloured plastic "use once only" stopper that glows in UV creates a seal that helps stop pills and illicit substances being slipped into the drink. A hole in the top of the device is just big enough for a straw to pass through.

The Forum have also produced and distributed advice cards that give tips on how to avoid drinks being spiked. Advice includes:

· Never leave a drink unattended
· Look out for your friends
· People that feel ill or become disorientated should seek immediate assistance from friends and staff at the venue
· Go out in a group, stay as a group and go home as a group

Keith Francis, Chair of Ledbury Alcohol and Drug forum said: "Drink spiking is not a major problem in the Ledbury. It is a growing issue in larger towns and cities. Many people from the area travel outside Ledbury to go clubbing and we want them to be aware of the potential dangers and make sure they stay safe."

To get involved in the forum, please contact Herefordshire Community Safety and Drugs Partnership on 01432 383523.