POLICE issued a warning to pub-goers and clubbers today following a series of drink-spiking incidents in Southampton.

Officers have investigated three reported cases in which the date rape drug GHB (gamma- hydroxybutyrate) is thought to have been added to the drinks of women in city centre pubs.

There has also been one overdose on a substance thought to have been GHB. The incidents have occurred in the London Road area and at organised singles events at Southampton venues within the past two months.

Although there have been no reports of anyone being assaulted after having their drink interfered with, police urged women to take extra care of their drinks.

Det Con Adrian Geary, of Shirley CID, said: "The underlying factor in all of these incidents is that drinks have been left unattended either on bars or tables.

"It is an assault and a crime we take very seriously.

"To prevent the risk of this happening when out enjoying the bars and clubs of Southampton, you should not leave your drink unattended and be mindful of strangers who pay you particular attention or offer you drinks.

"Be sure, if accepting drinks from strangers, that you can see the drink being served and keep your eye on it at all times.

"We are working together with our partner agencies to try and rid the pubs and clubs of Southampton of the menace of drink spiking and would urge anyone with information about these incidents to call us."

Southampton police's licensing team has contacted licensees in the city to advise them of the problem.

Many landlords and managers have reacted promptly, with a number of bars and clubs now operating a scheme where members of staff collect unattended drinks.

These bars and clubs pre-warn their customers that this is their policy and some are now allowing bottles and glasses onto the dance floor.

Anyone with information about drink spiking is urged to contact Shirley CID on 0845 045 4545 or Crimestoppers free on 0800 555 111.

Signs that your drink may have been spiked include:

A sour taste is usually associated with such drugs as GHB.

Do not drink any more of a drink if it does not taste right. Find your friends and explain what you suspect and leave the bar.

If you begin to feel ill, seek medical attention and report the incident to the police.

Symptoms include becoming overheated, increased heart rate and fainting. There is said to be a short sense of euphoria similar to that experienced by people taking Ecstasy and then physical collapse.

There is typically some memory loss and flashbacks may occur where the victim remembers engaging in involuntary behaviour.