Police have warned would-be drink spikers that they face up to 10 years in prison if they are caught.

The Warwickshire Police appeal comes as the Christmas party season gets going, and officers look to raise awareness amongst bar staff and the public.

Police are also asking people to report any concerns around drink spiking, be aware of the signs and know what to do if they think someone has been spiked.

Chief Inspector Karl Faulkner, safer neighbourhood lead for Warwickshire Police said: "A ten year prison sentence is just for the offence of spiking, if you go on to commit another offence such as robbery or sexual assault then you will face longer in prison.

"Offenders can also not be sure of how their victim will react to having their drink spiked; it can have serious consequences for someone's health and it can kill.

"We have been working hard raising awareness of the issue amongst bar staff and the public. The more people are on the lookout for offenders, are aware of the signs of drink spiking and know what to do if they think someone has been spiked, the harder it is for criminals to operate."

The effects of drink spiking vary depending on what someone has been spiked with.

Your symptoms could include:

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- Lowered inhibitions

- Loss of balance

- Feeling sleepy

- Visual problems

- Confusion

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Unconsciousness

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