16 December 2011 Last updated at 06:09 ET

Wi-fi texts warn women in London clubs of rape danger

Text messages are being sent to the mobile phones of women out partying in London during the Christmas period to warn them about the risk of rape.

The Metropolitan Police (Met) is using wi-fi hotspots near popular clubs like Ministry of Sound, Proud Galleries and Infernos to send messages to revellers.

Partygoers need to switch on their bluetooths or wi-fi to receive alerts.

The alerts will be available as a download to people in Westminster, Lambeth, Camden and Southwark.

They will give out safety advice, support centre and helpline numbers and will warn people that having sex with someone who is asleep or unconscious is rape.

Officers will also hand out leaflets about the service outside busy clubs and bars in the lead-up to Christmas.

Det Supt Jason Ashwood, from the Met's Sapphire unit, said: "Have fun, but be responsible and stay safe.

"It is an unfortunate fact of life that there are individuals out there who will try and take advantage of people when their inhibitions are lowered."