POLICE in Dursley are concerned about the use of nitrous oxide on the town’s recreation ground and are warning the public of the dangers in taking this drug.

Over the past month, more than 100 canisters have been found at Dursley Recreational Ground.

PCSO Joshua Griffiths, of Dursley's Neighbourhood Policing Team, said it was concerning that evidence suggested a large use of this drug.

“It is concerning to find so many empty bottles that leads us to believe that so many individuals are taking this high.

"This high basically stops oxygen from getting to the brain, which could lead to the individual fainting, or in the worst case, death from taking too much of this drug."

PC Luke Moffatt added: "The law around this high has changed.

"Since the end of May the Psychoactive Substance Act has made it illegal to produce, supply, offer to supply or import any psychoactive substance if it could be used for psychoactive effects (also known as a ‘legal high’).

"Police will have new powers to search individuals and properties for psychoactive substance, including nitrous oxide, where officers believe that it has been sold for the purpose to gain a psychoactive effect.

"Committing an offence within the act may lead to a prison sentence and/or a fine if found guilty at Crown Court.

"Our primary aim is to protect people from the harm caused by these often untested and unknown psychoactive substances.

"This act does not replace the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and laws surrounding controlled substances remain the same."

John Kay, the Town Clerk, said: "The Town Councillors are concerned with the high volumes of canisters found in the town, particularly by our staff on the War Memorial Recreational Ground.

"We will continue to work closely with our local neighbourhood policing team to raise awareness and tackle this and other anti-social behaviours on the War Memorial Recreational Ground."

Dursley Neighbourhood Policing Team are attending secondary schools in the area to educate children around the law, the effects and dangers of psychoactive substances.

If you believe that you know someone who is concerned in the supply of a psychoactive substance, including Nitrous Oxide, please call Gloucestershire Police on 101.

You can also contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

Talk To Frank can also be contacted on 0300 123 6600 or via www.talktofrank.com