Torches to show up cocaine use to be used in Rossendale pubs (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Torches to show up cocaine use to be used in Rossendale pubs

4:50pm Sunday 28th June 2009 in

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TORCHES that can detect if a person has been snorting cocaine will be used in pubs and clubs across Rossendale.

Police in the Valley have welcomed the new anti-drug initiative, which was piloted in Blackburn last month.

The torch illuminates fragments of the class A drug which is often left around the nose and mouth after use.

PC Frank Romasanta said he believed the new equipment would help the police tackle the war against drugs.

Speaking at a Rawtenstall neighbourhood forum meeting on Thursday, he said: “Where these torches have been used in other places in Lancashire, the feedback has been very good.

“Pubs and clubs throughout Rossendale will become a safer environment because of the torches.

“We are looking forward to seeing the impact the torches will have in the borough.”

Officers and doorstaff will shine a special torch at customers on entrance to local clubs to identify drug abusers with an ultra violet bright green light.

The torch can also high-light traces of Smart Water, a substance with a unique DNA-style code which shows up under ultra-violent light.

It also has an extra ultra violet function which can help in the use of identifying forged notes, identification cards and UV marked property.

Coun Tony Swain, leader of Rossendale Council, said he supported the new police initiative: “Any method which will reduce drug abuse has to be encouraged.

“It has worked in other areas of Lancashire and so is a proven way of ensuring other people can enjoy a safe night out.”