Police have sought to reassure people that Pride 2006 will not be ruined by "clumsy" random drug testing aimed at the gay community.

Officers will use the Ion Track drugs testing machine throughout the event.

They will target dealers who are expected to take advantage of the large number of revellers pouring into the city.

There were fears that a heavy-handed approach coupled with complications surrounding medication taken by some within the gay community could lead to innocent individuals being detained.

The Ion Track device detects minuscule traces of drugs on skin and clothing.

Police in Brighton have confirmed that testing will not be random and that any detection of drugs, such as those used to treat HIV, will be treated sensitively.

A spokesman said the testing will be intelligence-led and will target only those acting suspiciously or believed to be dealing in drugs.

The spokesman said: "Sussex Police want everybody visiting Pride 2006 to have a safe and fun time and our drugs testing policy isn't designed to catch anyone out or stitch them up.

"The main purpose of an Ion Track machine is simply to speed up the process of checking anyone we have good reason to believe may be in possession ofcontrolled drugs and avoid any unnecessary, intrusive searches."

But some of those planning to enjoy the parade remain to be convinced that drug testing is a good idea.

Richard Smith, from Bristol Road, Brighton, said: "This could ruin the atmosphere of what's always been a great and - I think even the police would admit - a pretty much trouble-free day.

"So many people are going to feel uneasy and will be constantly looking over their shoulder."

It is not the first time Ion Track has caused controversy. In May some club promoters voiced anger over a two-day operation outside pubs and clubs in Brighton and Hove which resulted in 11 arrests for drugs offences.

The operation was carried out with permission from the venues' owners.

Pride 2006 organisers have also approved testing during this year's event.

The police spokesman said: "Sussex Police will be on the look-out for illegal drug activity at Pride 2006, particularly with regard to anyone whose main purpose for attending is to deal in illegal drugs.

"However, we will only test people for drugs if we have specific information to indicate they are in possession of illegal drugs or if they are behaving in a way which strongly suggests they may be under the influence of illegal substances.

"Sussex Police recognise many people are on medication for a number of reasons and will be carrying that medication with them.

"The Ion Track machine generally only displays results it finds for illegal drugs.

"However if prescribed drugs contain certain substances, such as opiates for example, there is a small possibility the Ion Track will pick them up.

"Questions about medication will be handled discreetly."