Nottinghamshire Police and Newark and Sherwood District Council out at night warning of dangers of mixing cocaine and alcohol

Police and council staff were out in Newark town centre on a Friday night educating pub-goers over the dangers of mixing cocaine and alcohol.

The operation was in response to suggestions that the use of cocaine in Newark is increasing.

Police were joined by licensing staff from Newark and Sherwood District Council and the authority’s community protection officers, as well as drug workers, for the early-doors operation that sought to educate rather arrest.

Around 250 leaflets were handed out by the team, who were all in plain clothes, and 60 people agreed to take part in a questionnaire.

Inspector Matt Ward, divisional police commander for Newark and Sherwood, said 90% of respondents admitted to a lack of knowledge surrounding the increased dangers of mixing cocaine and alcohol.

These include impairment, a higher chance of becoming impulsive and violent, elevated risk of heart attack and a decrease in sexual performance for men.

Inspector Ward said: “There has been anecdotal evidence of increased cocaine use in Newark so what we sought to do was, rather than prosecute, to educate.

“90% of those that took part in the survey admitted to not knowing about, or having a lack of understanding of, the increased risk of mixing alcohol with cocaine.

“We did this early in the evening before people had too much to drink so they were more likely to take part and understand the messaging.

“I think it was successful and we’ll be doing it again.”

David Lloyd, leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Friday was another fantastic example of the work we are doing with partners through the Safer Streets scheme to make our residents feel safer.

“Cocaethylene is not only harmful to the individuals drinking and using cocaine together, but can also put those around them at risk, and it is vital that people are educated about the reality of the effects of cocaethylene.

“Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in the community and we will continue to work with our Safer Streets partners to ensure the safety and security of our residents.”

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry said: “The night of action is a really great initiative which builds on a range of other Safer Streets projects to keep people safe in Newark, including training for people working in the night-time economy.

“I’m particularly proud of the proactive approach of Neighbourhood Inspector Matt Ward and how he works to prevent issues. Innovative schemes like this can prevent problems before they cause harm to the community.”