PARTYGOERS are being warned about the dangers of legal highs ahead of Christmas and the 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.

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 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 substances.”

For free and confidential drugs advice call Choices on 0844 4991323 or text Choices to 80800 or the national Talk to Frank service