REPORTS of drink and needle spiking have declined across Hampshire – but nine incidents were reported in Southampton in less than a month.

The county constabulary saw an increase in crimes of this nature in October and November.

Between December 18 and January 14, officers used multi-drug test kits 15 times after a spiking was reported.

Nine of these were in Southampton: six negative test results, and three tested positive for amphetamine, cannabis and cocaine.

Four tests in Gosport, the New Forest and Test Valley were all negative. The remaining two were used in Portsmouth.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We recognise that drink spiking is a big concern for communities and we’ve been working really hard to develop our understanding of spiking in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight.

"Common spiking symptoms are confusion, lack of coordination, slurred speech, nausea, hallucinations, vomiting, paranoia and unconsciousness. If you think you or a friend has been spiked, tell a member of staff straight away, seek medical attention, report it to the police.

"To help us understand reports of spiking, we invested in multi-drug urine test kits which give an immediate reading and help us obtain early evidence.

Officers can only use drug tests kits to detect drugs used in spiking cases.

The spokesperson continued: "We know that spiking of any kind is to make a person vulnerable to a more serious offence, like a sexual assault or robbery.

"That’s why we have been working relentlessly with bars and clubs in cities in Hampshire to ensure that all venues are ‘spike aware’ and that staff are able to care for people who are reporting they have been spiked and urging those to call the police if they believe this crime has happened to them.

"We’re absolutely clear that we do not tolerate drink spiking at all. Individuals who are going out intending to behave in this way will be found and will be stopped.

"If you’re concerned you or a friend have been spiked, call police straight away. Our multi-drug testing kits can get the early evidence we need, and can provide valuable reassurance."

Those who spike to enable sexual activity could face 10 years in jail and may be placed on the sex offenders register.