POLICE are warning people about the dangers of taking illegal drugs after a man died in Gateshead.

At just before 8am on Monday, July 21, police received a report that a man had been found dead inside a house at Longhirst in Leam Lane Estate.

It's believed the man, aged in his 30s, had taken heroin.

Enquiries are being carried out to establish exactly what has happened, and further tests will be carried out. A report will be prepared for the coroner to establish a cause of death.

DI Sharon Chatterton, Gateshead CID, said: "We're carrying out extensive enquiries to establish whether there has been drug involvement, if there has been an overdose or if there is a bad batch of drugs in circulation.

"Taking any illegal drug is dangerous and potentially life threatening and I'd urge anyone who feels unwell to seek medical treatment immediately."

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with any information which could help police is asked to contact officers on 101.

Anyone who needs emergency medical attention should call 999. For further information visit www.frank.com or www.hiwecanhelp.co.uk.