Mobile drug screening units will be introduced in pubs and nightclubs in Stafford, which will be able to test individuals for illegal substances such as heroin and cocaine.

The apparatus is being provided by the Communities Against Drugs (CAD) fund and will be used by Staffordshire Police on an on-going basis.

Individuals will be given a non-invasive drug-screening test using a swab, which is carried out within a matter of seconds.

'Drug-free environment'

Once used, the swab is inserted into the new drugs screening equipment and a reading is given.

The initiative is a good example of partnership action aimed at sending a very clear message to the small minority of people who feel they need to cause trouble Councillor Trish Rowlands

If a result is positive, police will have the power to detain, search and arrest an individual.

Michael Pierce, licensee of Chicago Rock Cafe in Bridge Street, Stafford, said: "We are committed to providing a safe and drug-free environment for our customers and actively support Staffordshire Police in the use of this technology."

Inspector Mark Hallam, of Stafford Local Policing Unit (LPU), described the new technology as another "string to the bow" of police in the fight against criminal activity.

"This forms yet another part of our long-term objective to ensure that members of the community feel that they can use the facilities of Stafford safely and without concern."

Stafford Borough Council welcomed the initiative.

Councillor Trish Rowlands, cabinet member for community, said: "The initiative is a good example of partnership action aimed at sending a very clear message to the small minority of people who feel they need to cause trouble, that the community is not prepared to tolerate bad behaviour."