RESIDENTS have been warned of the dangers of taking psychoactive drugs following a spike in incidents in Cheshire.

Insp Dave Snasdell, from Northwich Local Policing Unit, said other areas of the county, including Chester and east Cheshire, have seen an increase in the number of incidents relating to mind-altering drugs.

He said there have not been any incidents reported in mid Cheshire, but has warned the public of the dangers of psychoactive drugs.

He said: “Over the past month we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of incidents in both areas involving psychoactive substances.

“We are extremely concerned these substances could have led to a number of people being hospitalised.

“We would strongly urge people not to take these drugs and for people to be aware of the dangers of taking these substances.”

Insp Snasdell said the drugs are highly addictive and known to leave users in a ‘zombie’ state.

He urged anyone who has taken any psychoactive substances and have concerns about their health should contact the medical services as soon as possible.