Drugs checks on pub and club goers were carried out by police officers and special constables in Canterbury and Herne Bay on Saturday night.

During the early evening officers, including those with dogs trained in detecting drugs, checked pubs in Herne Bay and a street caution was issued for the possession of cannabis.

The team then moved to Canterbury and with the support of licensees at the Beer Cart Arms, Baa Bars and the Biz, officers used the Ion Track drug detection machine as a condition of entry to the premises.

A total of 187 people were tested and there were no indications of drugs other than background traces.

A 27-year-old Margate man was arrested in the Beer Cart Arms, prior to the arrival of the Ion Track machine, and issued with a caution for the possession of cocaine.

The operation was part of Kent Police's Safer Summer campaign.

Ch Insp Mark Harrison said: “We know through talking to the public that anti-social behaviour and the misuse of drugs is a concern for residents and visitors to the district.

"We will continue to work in partnership with the community and owners of licensed premises to tackle these issues where they exist.

"The Canterbury district is a safe place to live, work and enjoy and we are well-equipped to identify the small minority of people that choose to break the law and my message to them is clear: you will be caught and dealt with.”

Drugs liaison officer Dave Watts said: “The reaction from members of the public was supportive and positive.”