A website set up to advise people on how to protect against date rape had almost 500 hits over the festive season.

The Strathclyde Police website, Drug Rape Watch What You Drink, was set up in December to offer advice on matters related to date rape.

By the end of the month, 483 people had logged on for advice.

Drug assisted sexual assault involves being given a drug, often by lacing a drink.

It then incapacitates or disorientates the person who drinks it and leaves them open to sexual assault.

A police spokesman said there were no reported incidents of drug rape in their area over the Christmas period.

However, he said evidence from other forces suggests the problem may go unreported.

He said community safety chiefs were pleased that people were looking for advice to protect themselves.

'Increasing concern'

Chief Superintendent Barry Dougall said: "There has been increasing public concern surrounding the use of drugs to commit sexual assault, however a relatively low number of reports have been recorded by the police.

"The introduction of this drug rape section to our website is clearly helping to raise public awareness on the subject, while also giving practical advice on how to prevent becoming a victim in the first place.

"People should remember that drug rape isn't just a Christmas crime it can happen all year round."

Mr Dougall said he hoped people would continue to seek advice from the website.