POLICE are carrying out extra patrols in Cotford St Luke after the discovery of several dozen used nitrous oxide cannisters.

The potentially fatal gas, often known as ‘laughing gas’, was thought to been used by youths congregating near the village recreation ground.

Inhaling the gas has some side effects which can be serious.

A police spokesman said the dangers included a lack of oxygen to the brain which could result in falling unconscious and possibly dying.

It could also cause dizziness and loss of balance, leading to falls, hallucinations, headaches, and lung and throat damage.

Vitamin B12 deficiency had been observed in chronic users, leading to memory issues and negative moods.

Police said increased patrols of Cotford St Luke, and also Bishops Lydeard, where cannisters were found near the West Somerset Railway, would target youths using balloons and cannisters of the gas.

A spokesman said they should ‘think twice and do not be tempted to make a choice which could potentially at best ruin your night, but at worst, ruin your life’.