Several Love Islanders sent home before filming FOR FAILING DRUG TESTS

Following a series of surprise drug tests, dozens of potential Love Island contestants have been reportedly axed from the line-up.

It is likely that many of the unlucky applicants would have made it into the final lineup if they had not been caught out, according to The Star on Sunday.

The hopeful islanders were sent home after being found with coke, ket, and cannabis in their systems.

A spokesperson told the Star on Sunday: "Contestants had to provide a urine sample, which was then tested. They weren’t warned, so it came as a surprise. But that’s the only way to do it. If people are told way in advance, they can take steps to avoid getting caught.

“The dozens who were caught were gutted. Some of them were really good contenders who would have probably made it into the final line up."

This follows the cancellation of Jeremy Kyle, one of ITV's most popular daytime shows, after guest Steve Dymond failed his lie-detector test and died by suicide a week later.

Debate was sparked as to whether Love Island should also be axed, after former stars Sophie Gradon and Mike Thalassitis both took their own lives after battling depression.

Love Island bosses have appeared to reach a compromise by introducing these new drug tests, in a bid to ensure the final contestants have the best possible standard of mental and physical health.

A source told The Star: "People who take drugs regularly in the clubs on a Saturday night can come with a whole load of hidden physical and mental health problems. This year has been about seeking out clean living contestants.

"This year they have ensured every single person who enters the villa has passed a drugs test. They want everyone to be mentally and physically healthy.”

In a statement, ITV wrote: "The production team have continued to evolve their processes with each series, as the show’s popularity has risen and the social and media attention on Islanders has increased.

"The key changes this year are – enhanced psychological support, more detailed conversations with potential Islanders regarding the impact of participation on the show, bespoke training for all Islanders on social media and financial management and a proactive aftercare package which extends our support to all Islanders following their participation."

Sources also suggest that bosses are offering an improved 14-month aftercare support plan, including eight compulsory counselling sessions.

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