A new campaign has been launched in pubs to help raise awareness of the dangers of drug rape.
A series of beer mats and posters for pubs have been launched by the Metropolitan Police, and licensees and barstaff are being urged to help police inform pub-goers of the risks.
The posters, which ask "who's watching your drink?", have been distributed to pubs following news that the number of drug rapes is on the rise. Police across the UK have warned that this figure could increase further during the festive season.
According to figures released by the police, the number of rapes in which victims' drinks are spiked amounts to at least two a week in London alone.
Between October 2000 and August 2001, 75 women and men were raped after being drugged, the Metropolitan Police said. A further 24 were sexually assaulted.
Most of the spikings have happened in pubs and clubs where the victims have left their drinks unattended.
In May, the Metropolitan Police set up a special unit for the crime, and are now stepping up efforts to educate drinkers in the run up to Christmas.
DI Petrina Cribb said: "The use of drugs to overpower victims in order to commit rape is particularly sinister. We are determined to do all we can to prevent and detect these abhorrent crimes.
"Our message to the public is please be safe, ensure you know what you are drinking and don't leave drinks unattended."
A similar spate of attacks in Bristol recently led police to urge licensees and barstaff to be extra vigilant over the festive period. Last year at least 20 women had drinks spiked in Bristol pubs and clubs during Christmas celebrations.
Related stories:
Alert over rape drug after spate of attacks (6 November 2001)
Bristol licensees urged to be vigilant as drug rapes soar (10 August 2001)
Drugs detector developed to be sold in pubs and clubs (03 August 2001)
Trade warned of rise in drug rapes (23 May 2001)