The spiking of a young farmer via injection at a YFC event has sparked calls for caution.
The incident took place on Saturday November 13 at Gisburn YFC's Winter Warmer event.
It comes as 274 spiked by injection reports have been recorded across the UK between September and the first Friday in November, according to the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), with the new form of assault receiving national attention.
In a Facebook status the event organiser said: "It has come to our attention that someone was spiked via injection at the YFC do.
"The person has been to the police and hospital and had a full check up.
"Please can everyone check themselves and make sure this has not happened to anyone else, this person was injected in both wrist and leg.
"This is totally out of order at a young farmers do and there will be a full investigation and the police will be informed straight away if the person is found.
"If anyone has any information please come forward.
"We are very sorry that this has happened."
A Lancashire Police spokesperson told Farmers Guardian: "We are aware of reports of an assault occurring at a property in Gisburn Road, Gisburn, sometime on November 13 and we are investigating.
"Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting log 1610 of November 14, 2021.
"If you think you have been the victim of spiking, we would encourage you to report it to the police or a member of the bar staff as soon as possible.
"You will be believed and it will allow us to obtain the strongest possible evidence to secure a conviction."
Support
A National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs spokesperson said they were aware of reports of a spiking incident that happened during a social event organised by Gisburn YFC and events organisers and the County Federation were working with the police to support their investigation.
"We are also working with the club and County Federation to support anyone affected by the allegation of a spiking incident," the spokesperson said.
"No one should feel unsafe when enjoying an evening out or be subjected to any action that puts them at personal risk.
"Any alleged incidents of spiking will be treated seriously by NFYFC and will be reported to the police."
Police issue advice after drink spiking and needle stick incidents
Warwickshire Police has issued the following advice to people to help them stay safe on nights out.
How to avoid drink spiking:
- Some venues give out drink stoppers for the top of your bottle to prevent someone dropping something in your drink.
- Never leave your drink unattended, whether it is alcoholic or not.
- Do not accept a drink from someone you do not know.
- Avoid drinking too much.
- Stick together with friends and look out for each other.
What to do if you have been drugged or spiked:
- Tell the people you are with and make sure you are somewhere were you feel safe.
- Alert a member of staff at the pub or club you are at.
- If you feel unwell you should seek medical attention immediately and tell them that you believe your drink has been spiked.
- Report it to the police as soon as possible.
What to do if your friend has been drugged or spiked:
- Tell a bar manager, bouncer or member of staff.
- Stay with them and keep talking to them.
- Call an ambulance if their condition deteriorates.
- Do not let them go home on their own.
- Do not let them leave with someone you do not know or trust.
- Do not let them drink more alcohol as this could lead to more serious problems.
