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Plans for a pilot drugs court in Fife were discussed on Monday as deputy justice minister Richard Simpson met key drug workers at the ‘Next Steps’ project in Leven.

The pilot was announced in November and is thought to be up and running by the summer. Fife was selected following successful take up of drug treatment and testing orders in the area.

Simpson praised the project’s work, and reiterated the Scottish executive’s full support in tackling drug misuse in the community.

"Next Steps allows people to take control of their lives in a supportive environment to minimise the risk of relapse and promote full integration back into the community," he said.

"This will also strengthen communities and businesses in Fife, which have been undermined by drug misuse and drug related crime for too long," he added.

The Fife drugs court will follow the Glasgow model and make orders by allowing rapid access to treatment; review the performance of participants subject to orders in open court on a regular basis; provide frequent drug tests for offenders and impose penalties and sanctions for non-compliance.