Newport and Pontypool pubs share spiking safety measures

Gwent Police has reassured the public that cases of suspected spiking will be fully investigated.

A spokesman for the force said: "All reports of drink spiking will be investigated by officers. We work closely with licensed premises and local authorities in our area and will ensure that further steps are taken to raise awareness and keep people safe."

Although this is a national issue, concerns are across the country, and venues across Gwent have also taken measures to help protect the public from spiking.

LE PUB

Le Pub, on High Street in Newport, has StopTopps available for free from the bar. These foil drink-protectors can be put on top of drinks to help minimise the risk of drink spiking.

Other safety policies at the venue include:

• Working with Safe Gigs for Women to ensure staff know how to support victims of sexual assault.
• Taking suspected spiking of drinks seriously; they will investigate and if they find evidence the culprit will be held and police called. Anyone who suspects spiking is asked to alert staff.
• Replacing drinks free of charge if people suspect they have been spiked.

MCCANNS ROCK N ALE BAR

McCanns, also on Newport’s High Street, has taken a similar approach with StopTopps and anti-spike bottle tops.

StopTopps are available at McCanns (Picture: McCanns/Facebook)

Business owner Amy McCann said: “We want everyone to enjoy themselves and not worry about vile people doing these absolutely disgusting thing.

“If you see anyone acting suspiciously or spiking drinks, please report it to a member of staff.”

BREEZE

Breeze has a zero tolerance policy

Breeze Bar, on Cambrian Road in Newport, continues to operate a zero-tolerance policy towards spiking and they will take action against people who attempt this or do this within their venue.

They ask that if any guests feel unsafe or unwell they let staff know immediately, as they want to ensure people feel safe.

HOGARTHS AND THE IRON DUKE

Hogarths in Newport and The Iron Duke in Pontypool are Amber Tavern venues and continue to take action to help avoid spiking and protect the public.

Hogarths in Newport (Picture: Mike Williams)

This includes:

• Raising awareness for customers and staff, particularly around peak trading times such as Bank Holidays and the festive period.
• High resolution CCTV and vigilant staff.
• ‘Ask for Angela’ – if a person feels unsafe they can go to the bar and ask for “Angela” and staff will know you need help getting out of the situation and will call a taxi or get you out discreetly.

THE DRAGONFFLI

The Draonffli, on Crumlin Street in Pontypool, will not tolerate spiking in the venue and is doing their bit to keep customers safe.

Owner Nick Byrne said: “Spiking can happen to men and women and is not a nice thing to do.

“We are operating searches on entry to the venue and encourage people not to leave their drink unattended.”

If people need to leave their drink they’re asked to leave it with a staff member behind the bar, which is in view of their CCTV.

THE POTTERS

The Potters, in Newport, has a strict over-25s policy and doesn’t operate as a nightclub but are mindful that this issue can affect all age groups and people.

Potters' rooftop terrace

A spokeswoman for the venue said: "Our venue is well staffed with a team of experienced door staff who operate on the door and within our establishment monitoring all activity closely.

“We also have a very efficient and wide-reaching CCTV camera system inside and outside of the building which can be called upon to investigate any alleged incident.

“We continue to stay alert and remain vigilant andhave good communication within the local community of hospitality owners, operators and managers so can share useful information through support groups and work with the police and community officers to ensure the safety of our customers.”