I wrote this piece for a news writing course I took last year. As I happened to blip the coffee shop in question today, I thought I'd put it here.

Asylum seekers openly taking drugs on the streets of London

The latest drug to hit Britain is being regularly consumed by Somali asylum seekers in public. Outside the Soma Coffe Shop in South London, about 20 men lounge with blue plastic bags from which they chew the leaves of the Katha Edulis plant, known as Khat. The ground around them is littered with the detritus of their habit, yet passers-by seem completely unaware.

Khat is a stimulant that originates from East Africa and Saudi Arabia where it has been used recreationally for centuries. These men are refugees and are among the poorest immigrants in the UK. They work as cab drivers, and use Khat to keep going during long shifts. When questioned, they smile but refuse to talk, even though Khat is legal in the UK. It is however, banned in Europe and America, where it is a Class 1 narcotic.

The bitter-tasting drug reduces fatigue and creates a sense of euphoria, but is believed to cause side effects like hallucinations, paranoia and heart problems. Dr Stephen Greyswood, a local GP stated, 'Khat hasn't appeared on the radar yet as no studies have been done.' The Department of Health is only now investigating the long-term health risks and whether it should be banned.

Bisk suggested I call this 'The Khats out the bag!'