A man was arrested on suspicion of possessing class A drugs in a police drug testing operation at a pub in Potters Bar.

Members of the Potters Bar Safer Neighbourhood Team used a drug testing machine on customers entering the Old Manor Bar and Restaurant, in Wyllotts Place, on Saturday night.

The bar’s owners refused entry to anyone who would not take part in the test, which can detect tiny traces of drugs by reading a swab taken from a person’s hand.

Anyone with residue found on their hands was subsequently searched, and one 34-year-old man from Potters Bar was arrested.

He was subsequently released on bail until Thursday, March 13.

The general manager of the Old Manor Bar and Restaurant said: “This event was very much welcomed by us and our customers.

“Around 100 people came into the bar during the operation and many have since said they appreciated the testing as a method to prevent crime.”

Safer Neighbourhood Inspector Richard Johnson said: “We will be holding similar operations throughout the year, both in Potters Bar and across Hertsmere, and I hope this sends out a clear message that we will not tolerate drug usage in the area.”