"DON'T leave your drink unattended." That was the resounding message from North Yorkshire Police, as "Alcotops" were distributed free to pubs and clubs in York city centre.

Alcotops are plastic caps which are designed to cover the open bottle to prevent the contents being spiked with either drugs or alcohol.

PC Paul Hopson, who is spearheading the scheme to educate drinkers in the city, called on them to take sensible precautions.

"There are relatively few drink-spiking incidents reported in York, but there is an upward trend nationally, so the timing is right to encourage pub goers and clubbers to be aware of the dangers and take sensible precautions," he said.

Posters showing menacing eyes are up in pubs and clubs warning drinkers that when they cannot see their drink others can and they are exposed to the danger of spiking.

Managers of pubs and clubs across York have thrown their support behind the campaign.

Macmillans and Nexus manager Peter Brownsword said: "Drink spiking is a despicable crime.

"Myself and other city centre licensees are very pleased to help the police get the message through to our customers, though we do not see this as being a particular problem at this time."

If you have been a victim of drink spiking, phone the police immediately on 0845 6060 247 and always obtain medical advice.

In September last year, the Evening Press reported claims that several drinks had been spiked in city centre bars in York after they were left unattended.

:: Seven simple steps

The police have released seven simple steps to avoid drink spiking. They are:

Never leave your drink unattended

Only accept a drink from a stranger if you have accompanied them to the bar and watched it being served

Ask the bar staff to remove bottle tops in your presence.

Keep the bottle in your hand and use your thumb to cover the top - or use the free Alcotop.

Go out in a group, stay as a group, and go home as a group

Look out for your friends, don't let others take advantage of them

If you feel ill or disorientated, seek immediate help from your friends and staff at the venue.

Updated: 09:51 Saturday, April 16, 2005