West Mercia Police has said it is continuing to take a "proactive" approach to preventing incidents of drink spiking.

This comes amid a rise in concerns as more and more alleged victims of spiking via drinks and injections come forward both nationally and locally.

Girls Night In Worcester held its first protest on Wednesday, October 27 asking women to boycott clubs and bars in the city.

And there are plans for more boycotts to be held as talks with city night spots including Tramps, Bushwackers and Sin continue.

Detective Superintendent Mo Lansdale said: "Drink and drug spiking is a serious crime and any reports will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.

"We encourage anyone with any concerns to please get in touch with us.

"We remain focussed on preventing a range of offences connected with the night-time economy and are working closely with door staff, venues and partners in our communities.

"Designated officers carry out patrols across our region and anyone can approach them for advice and support.

"Please visit Drink Aware for advice and information on the symptoms of drink spiking and what to do if you think someone has been spiked.

"We provide full and confidential support to anyone who has been affected."

On Friday, Worcester News reported how a 20-year-old woman, who wished not to be named, claimed that she was spiked with a needle while celebrating Halloween with a group of friends on Sunday (October 31) at Bushwackers in Worcester.

She described feeling a prick in her arm before later collapsing outside the club.

The victims' friends have since called on the club's management to conduct thorough searches before guests are allowed to enter.

They said: "When you go in there, they check your ID but you don't get searched. There's no safeguarding.

"I think they should have a safe room, some kind of support. Or at least just search people."

A previous post on Sin's Instagram page said: "We have put a number of safety procedures in place to keep everyone safe in both Sin and Bushwackers.

"As well as these safety precautions, we also have female welfare officers in both clubs so all our customers feel safe.

"We fully support females staying safe in both our venues.

"If you see anything and don't feel safe, please don't hesitate to speak to a member of staff trained in helping others."

West Mercia Police has said anyone with any concerns about an incident can call 101 or visit https://www.westmercia.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/.

In an emergency, always dial '999'.

If you have been affected by crime and need support, you can contact the Victim Advice Line on 0800 952 3000, or by visiting www.victimadviceline.org.uk for free and confidential support.

If you have information but don’t feel comfortable speaking to police, you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers at crimestoppers-uk.org, or call 0800 555 111.