Pubs and clubs across the Dover district are being issued with anti-drink spiking devices to help protect customers.

Thousands of 'Spikeys' are being given out by the Dover District Community Safety Partnership with the aim of keeping people safe during the festive season.

Spikeys are brightly coloured plastic stoppers which go inside the neck of drinks bottles – and stop drink spiking.

As the initiative was so successful last year it is again being repeated in the run up to Christmas and New Year.

Community Safety Partnership Officer Heidi Golden said: “Although this is not a particular issue for the district we want to raise awareness and make sure that everyone remains safe while enjoying the festive season.

“For those drinking out of glasses rather than bottles we advise people to keep hold of their drink and if they do have to put it down, ask a friend to keep an eye on it.”

Heidi will be delivering Spikeys to pubs and clubs next week, along with Police Community Support Officer Katie Parker-Brown.

Licensed premises who would like some Spikeys can contact Heidi Golden on 01304 872165.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©