A POLICE operation is today set to feature as part of a new ITV show, after officers carried out drugs testing at a popular pub.

A POLICE operation is today set to feature as part of a new ITV show, after officers carried out drugs testing at a popular pub.

A team of Suffolk police officers used high-tech equipment to test revellers entering Isaacs bar at Ipswich Waterfront last night to see if they had come into contact with drugs.

The camera crew were on-site filming the operation for a special documentary, to be hosted by Jeremy Kyle, focusing on drugs and the impact of drug use in the UK.

As part of the county-wide operation officers, including a police dog, used the drugs itemiser machine to detect the exact types and levels of drugs people had come into contact with.

Inspector Becky Kidd-Stanton, leading the operation, said the device has proved a very effective deterrent since its introduction last summer.

She said: “Since February it has been used 40 times in different capacities. Some have been like this, a very overt operation and some where we go into premises before they open to identify problem areas.

“All the major clubs and bars in Ipswich have supported the scheme, inviting us in proving them to be very proactive which is really encouraging.

“The success rate is attributable to the high profile deterrent it provides rather than an enforcement point of view.

“It is about having a visible presence on the premises giving the message they do no tolerate drugs, maximising efforts to discourage the supply of drugs in Ipswich.”

Insp Kidd-Stanton said Isaac's was picked for last night's operation due to their support for the scheme.

“They are very supportive and invited us in because they have a very strong stance in relation to drug use.”

The device was funded by the Drug and Alcohol Action Team in Suffolk and recently a new mobile device has been introduced to the Lowestoft area, funded by the Waveney Community Safety partnership.

n. Do you think the tests are a good idea? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.