Sixth-formers across Easingwold are being warned of the dangers of leaving their drinks unattended.

Officers from the Hambleton Community Safety Partnership are distributing hundreds of 'spikeys' to the students in a bid to protect them from drink spiking.

The special 'alcotop' stoppers fit tightly into the neck of an open bottle and cannot be easily removed. They come complete with a long flexi straw and a display tube.

The Easingwold students were the first to receive their spikeys when the town's district manager for community education in the town, Amanda Gledhill, handed them out. Officers have also delivered them to Northallerton, Thirsk and Stokesley.

Pubs and clubs in the district were also issued with supplies - along with eye-catching posters warning of the dangers.

"There are relatively few incidents of drink-spiking in Hambleton - but one is one too many," said partnership chairman Rosemary Taylor.

"Nationally the trend is up so it is important to educate the young people about the dangers of having drinks spiked with drugs or alcohol - pills, powders or liquids.

"As sixth-formers turn 18 and are going out into pubs and clubs they must be on their guard against this despicable crime - it can have devastating effects and can strike anyone at any time."

She said the following steps should always be taken:

Never leave drinks unattended

Only accept a drink from a stranger if you have seen it being poured

Ask bar staff to remove the bottle top in your presence - keep your thumb over the top or use a spikey

Watch out for your friends - go out in a group, stay in that group and come home with them!

If you feel ill or disorientated seek medical advice immediately

If you think you have been a victim of drink spiking ring the police on 0845 60 60 24 7

Updated: 12:10 Wednesday, January 04, 2006