Pubs across the south of Scotland signed up to the initiative

About 80 pubs and clubs in the Borders and Dumfries and Galloway took part in the drugs awareness event organised by Know the Score.

The weekend directly targeted the 18 to 26 age group and highlighted the health risks of taking cocaine.

The event was organised with the support of police, drug action teams and local pubwatch schemes.

Julie Murray, of Borders Drugs and Alcohol Action Team, said a small rise in cocaine usage in the area was of concern.

It's really important that people understand what risks they are taking when they decide to take cocaine Douglas Robertson Jumpin' Jaks nightclub

"One of the many dangers associated with cocaine use is the misconception that occasional use will not lead to addiction," she said.

"The reality, of course, is that increasing numbers of cocaine users are accessing treatment programmes for help with depression, paranoia and all of the other issues which go hand in hand with cocaine addiction."

Douglas Robertson of Jumpin' Jaks nightclub in Dumfries, said it welcomed any initiative that raised the issue of drugs.

"It's really important that people understand what risks they are taking when they decide to take cocaine," he said.

"Events like this help get essential drug information to clubbers and we will be giving our full support."