POLICE have issued a warning over drug use ahead of this weekend's SoundClash music festival near Ringwood.

Hampshire Police say they are working closely with organisers and partners to ensure the event, set to be attended by around 17,500 people, goes smoothly.

SoundClash is set to take place on Saturday from 1pm to 1am on the Somerley estate, with acts including Groove Armada, Andy C, MistaJam, Pendulum and Marvin Humes.

Superintendent Kelly Whiting said that they will also be reminding festival-goers of the dangers of illegal drugs including new 'psychoactive substances.'

Every person will be searched by security before entering the site and amnesty bins will be in operation. Alcohol is also not allowed to be brought into the festival site and all ticket-holders must also carry valid ID.

Superintendent Whiting added: "We will be maintaining a robust position on drugs, including new psychoactive substances, all of which are banned from site.

"If you are found with drugs, you will at the very least be ejected from site and barred from returning, and there is a very good chance you will be arrested and prosecuted.

"Festivals in previous years have shown that even just dabbling in illegal drugs and psychoactive substances can have catastrophic or fatal consequences.

"We would like to remind those attending that there will be no pedestrian access to the event. The organisers have a robust traffic management plan to reduce congestion in the area."

Tickets for the event include a free bus service before 4pm running from Bournemouth and Southampton.

Superintendent Whiting advised people to plan their journey home in advance such as booking a taxi, arranging a lift or nominating a designated driver.

"The dangers of drink or drug driving can be devastating and can ruin lives. If you drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you won’t just be putting your lives at risk but also the lives of your friends and other road users. It’s not worth the risk."

For more information, go to Hampshire.police.uk/internet/advice-and-information/general/festivals