POLICE fear Lancaster clubbers are falling prey to so-called 'date rape' drugs after a series of incidents in the city centre.

Officers have warned revellers to keep a close eye on their drinks following five incidents in recent weeks where victims have come forward and reported illness and loss of memory after drinking in Lancaster bars and clubs.

One young woman has already reported finding herself in an unfamiliar house with no recollection of the previous night.

DI Colin Fish of Lancaster police said: "Obviously, we are extremely concerned that young people are being affected in this way.

"In each of the cases reported to us the person was enjoying a night out when suddenly they became ill.

"Some even collapsed and have little or no recollection of what had happened. An added worry is that the use of these types of drugs provides the potential for serious sexual assaults which is why we are working closely in partnership with the local rape and sexual assault steering group." DI Fish and his colleague, DI Paul Mattinson, say they have received full co-operation from bar and club owners who have been questioned.

DI Mattinson added: "They are as concerned as we are to clear this matter up and we have given them descriptions of people we think might have been involved.

"We are also studying video tapes to see if they can give us any further clues because we are determined to stamp out this type of dangerous meddling."

Police believe the incidents are centred around a small number of clubs, but they have called for other drinkers who have had similar experiences to come forward.

A description has been issued of a man who police believe may be connected to the incident.

He is white, in his early 20s, over 6ft tall, skinny, clean shaven with bleached blonde, unkempt hair. He spoke with a Yorkshire accent and is said to have mentioned Bradford in his conversation. He was with another man, described as stocky with a skinhead haircut.

Anyone who has any information or who believes they have been a victim themselves is asked to call Lancaster police on 01524 63333, quoting log number 48NQ 5th 7th.

Women who have suffered symptoms or feel they have been assaulted can call the rape and sexual assault helpline on 853126 or, for a face to face interview, 846820.

So called 'date rape' drugs, such as Rohypnol, have been used in a growing number of assaults, mostly in the South of England, in recent months.