TWO men have been taken to hospital displaying symptoms of ‘excited delirium’ after taking what is believed to be a bad batch of amphetamine.

Both men who were taken to hospital in separate incidents yesterday, are believed to have bought the drug in the Horden area, near Peterlee.

As a result, police say they have growing concerns that there may be a ‘bad batch’ of amphetamine circulating in the area.

They are encouraging users to be mindful of symptoms, including paranoia, disorientation, hyper-aggression, hallucination, incoherence, seemingly superhuman strength or endurance.

Symptoms can also include having a high temperature and profuse sweating - or being inappropriately clothed after "removing garments".

Anyone displaying these symptoms or who notices anyone with these symptoms, should seek medical advice immediately.

Sergeant Tony Forster, of Peterlee Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We believe this to be a small, isolated case, but want any potential users to take extra caution all the same.

“Amphetamine is an extremely dangerous substance at the best of times, and our advice is always to avoid it entirely, but we have reason to believe that this product may be particularly harmful.”

Anyone with information they believe may be related to these incidents should contact Durham Police on 101.