Sniffer dogs to be used in Colne pubs (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Sniffer dogs to be used in Colne pubs

10:45am Saturday 16th June 2012 in Colne

A NEW campaign to introduce a drugs dog to sniff out possible users in Colne’s pubs and clubs has been welcomed by landlords.

Councillors are behind a new ‘Safer Colne’ drive, which will see a drugs dog and handler being drafted in along Albert Road and Market Street.

Colne already has a reputation as a zero-tolerance area for trouble on licensed premises - their pub watch scheme has more current bans than Burnley and Nelson combined.

And Noel Buckley, one of the landlords at The Crown, Albert Road, believes that the initiative will reassure pub and club patrons.

He said: “We need to send out a message that the measure we are taking ensure that everyone has a good night - but also a safe night.”

Licensed premises in Colne recently passed a similar spot-check with flying colours.

And it is hoped the £2,000 allocated to the scheme, by Colne’s area committee, will achieve similar results.

It will pay for a drugs dog, narcotic wipes and ultra-violet torches, which show up evidence of illegal substances being abused in pub toilets.

Coun Joe Cooney, council leader and Boulsworth ward councillor, said: “Here in Colne we have an excellent night life and we want to ensure it stays that way.

“This money will allow the council and police to be proactive in dealing with drugs in our town.

“We want to send a clear message to people that sell or use illegal drugs in our pubs that you will be caught and dealt with appropriately.”

The scheme will be overseen by borough council licensing officials, in liaision with police in Colne. The work is also being supported by pub watch group CAND (Colne Against Night-time Disorder).