POLICE have issued an alert after the seizure of a batch of potentrially lethal drugs during a raid in North Yorkshire.

The class-A drug - known as 4-Methylamphetamine - has previously been linked to deaths across the United Kingdom and Europe but has never been found in North Yorkshire before.

It was seized during a raid in York in which a local man was arrested. He is currently on bail as inquiries continue.

The drug was found in paste form which is visually similar to amphetamine, of which it may also have the same taste and smell. It can be white, off white or yellow in appearance.

Drug liaison officer DC Louise Taylor said: “I am concerned that users will be unaware that they are taking this drug, believing it to be amphetamine. As a result they will not be fully aware of the risks involved.

“ Regular users of amphetamine may not be able to distinguish between this drug and amphetamine.”

She added: "Whilst we strongly advise people against taking this or other controlled drugs, we would advise that if they are using this substance or a drug they believe to be amphetamine, if they start to feel very unwell they should call 999 immediately and call an ambulance.”

She also appealed for anyone with information regarding the drug to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonynoulsy on 0800 555111.

*Anyone concerned about their drug use should contact their local drug referral agencies such as the Hambleton And Richmond Community Addiction Service on (01609) 780486