A police spokesman confirmed at least three incidents of possible date rape have been reported in the past few weeks, the most recent at the weekend.

Media relations officer Sergeant Richard Power said there have been incidents when women have found themselves in vulnerable situations and believe they may have been sexually assaulted.

'Over the summer the police have been made aware of a number of allegations of suspected date rape,' he said.

'While investigations are continuing to establish the facts, I would like to take this opportunity to warn people about the situations they can find themselves in.

'These problems tend to be associated with people who find themselves in vulnerable situations, often because they have consumed excess alcohol and are not as aware of potential dangers, as they normally would be.

'Our advice is to drink in moderation. If you are with a group, try to stay together and when you head home, get a taxi or stay with someone you can trust. The main point is not to drink to excess.'