POLICE are investigating one allegation of needle spiking in Basingstoke, after a woman reported being spiked in a nightclub last month.

The woman, a 24-year-old, was allegedly the victim of needle spiking at Plush Lounge Bar on Wote Street on Friday, November 19.

Hampshire Constabulary have launched an investigation and arrested a 21-year-old man from Hook.

He was taken into custody on suspicion of "administering poison or noxious thing with intent to injure, aggrieve or annoy", and has since been released under investigation.

Have you been the victim of needle spiking in Basingstoke? Contact ryan.evans@basingstokegazette.co.uk in confidence.

Ernie Phelps, owner of Plush, told The Gazette that he had contacted the police after being contacted by the alleged victim.

"As a company we care about all customers and their welfare and we have gone above and beyond," he added.

It comes after Basingstoke MP Maria Miller on Tuesday urged any people who think they may have been spiked in Basingstoke to come forward.

Earlier this year, scores of reports came forward from people who said they had been spiked by needles whilst in nightclubs and other venues.

Around 140 confirmed reports were made in September and October.

Hampshire Constabulary have opened an investigation into the Basingstoke incident and are establishing the circumstances.

Chief Inspector Matt Reeves, district commander for Basingstoke, said: “Our Licensing team is in regular contact with licensed premises to ensure their venue is run safely and that any incidents are reported to us swiftly.

“We are continuing to work with premises in the town so that victims feel safe to report incidents when they happen. This will give us the best opportunity to identify offenders.”

A police spokesperson added: "Any incident of spiking is very scary and can have devastating consequences, however we would like to reassure people that these incidents are in fact, incredibly rare."

"Those who have reported that they have been spiked by a needle across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have said they have felt very unwell and then later found a mark on themselves.

"Common spiking symptoms are confusion, lack of coordination, slurred speech, nausea, hallucinations, vomiting, paranoia and unconsciousness.

"If you think you or a friend has been spiked, tell a member of staff straight away, seek medical attention and report it to the police.

"We will relentlessly pursue perpetrators of this crime, a crime that carries a potential 10-year prison sentence.

"You can get in touch by using our online reporting tool: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

"Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and leave information anonymously."