Clubbers face random drug tests

A device that tests people to see if they have recently been in contact with drugs has been used by police for the first time in Oxfordshire.

Thames Valley Police used the hi-tech testing equipment at The Bridge nightclub in Oxford at the weekend.

About 150 clubbers had hands, mobile phones, purses and wallets swabbed and tested for a range of controlled drugs.

Only five people tested positive, two of which admitted to using cocaine earlier, but no arrests were made.

All five were refused entry to the club.

Pc Leigh Thompson, of Thames Valley Police, said the night was the first of many operations to be undertaken in pubs and clubs.

A spokesman for The Bridge said most clubbers "welcomed being tested and supported the initiative".