Fears are growing that date rape is on the increase

Inspector John Duffy, of the Strathclyde Police Community Involvement section, fears so-called date-rape drugs are becoming more readily available.

"The threat is very real, but unfortunately people see it as a kind of Hollywood item, " he said.

Police in Ayr have also issued a warning about date rape.

Paul Waterson, of the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, which represents thousands of bar and club owners, insisted his members were taking drug assisted rape seriously.

"There certainly is a problem, which concerns us greatly but it is hard one to do anything about," he said.

A Scottish club chain is launching a campaign to drive the message home.

When a girl goes to the toilet and leaves her drink unattended we are asking security staff to slip one of these stirrers into it John Gallagher Castle Leisure

"The licensed trade needs to stand up and be counted," said Castle Leisure security manager John Gallagher.

He wants to highlight the dangers of drinks being spiked if left unattended. The group has produced drink stirrers with, "B Aware!" on one side and the campaign logo - an eye - on the other.

"When a girl goes to the toilet and leaves her drink unattended we are asking security staff to slip one of these stirrers into it," Mr Gallagher explained.

"They will follow up by asking her why she thinks it has been put into her glass."

Clubbers' experiences

Staff will also be asking clubbers their views on date rape and about their own experiences.

"The campaign is two pronged - raising awareness and, secondly, trying to get proper figures about the size of the problem," Mr Gallagher went on.

"Up to now it has been happening mainly in England but I think it is starting to creep into Scotland."

He referred to recent reports of incidents in Edinburgh where men were targeted, adding: "You can't assume it is just going to happen to women."

Inspector Duffy said everyone should be on their guard. Statistics show that 54% of all date rapes begin on licensed premises.

"Look out for each other in clubs and pubs," he advised.

"Appoint a drinks watcher, don't take drinks from anyone you are unsure of, don't swap drinks with anyone and be suspicious if your glass has been moved."

"It's a clandestine crime. These criminals are opportunists. Make sure you don't give them the opportunity."