PARTYGOERS are being warned of the dangers of ‘legal highs’ ahead of Christmas and New Year.

Trading Standards and Drug and Alcohol Team officers at Essex County Council have been confronting businesses which sell the drugs throughout the year but are renewing their appeal.

Over the summer the team convinced Colchester store Sheppards to stop selling the highs, technically known as novel psychoactive substances.

Roger Walters, county councillor for Trading Standards, said: “I want to make clear to young people in Essex if they take these products they are risking their lives. The effects are largely unpredictable especially when mixed with alcohol.

“They can and have proven to be fatal, so don’t take a chance.

“While these products are commonly known as ‘legal highs’ the reality is retailers have no idea whether what they are selling is legal let alone safe.

“Our advice to retailers has been to stop supplying. I want to remind businesses they have a duty of care to ensure products are safe and we will do all we can to protect people from these dangerous substances.”

Ann Naylor, councillor for Public Health, added: “It is important residents understand just because something says it is legal does not mean it is safe or harmless to use.”

The warning has been backed by Essex Police and Police and Crime Commissioner Nick Alston.

  • For free and confidential drugs advice call Choices on 0844 499 1323 or text Choices to 80800 or the national Talk to Frank service can be contacted on 0300 123 6600.