Four people taken to hospital after taking ‘legal highs’

Another four people have been taken to hospital after taking ‘legal highs’ in Rochdale.

Police were called to an address on Milnrow Road, Rochdale, shortly before 3.50pm yesterday to reports that a man in his 30s was unconscious after taking a suspected ‘legal high’.

He was treated at the scene and taken to hospital where he is in a life-threatening condition. It is thought he may have taken a ‘legal high’ known as Clockwork Orange.

Shortly after, around 4.20pm, officers were also called to Oldham Road, Rochdale, where a man in his 40s had collapsed after taking what is also believed to be a ‘legal high’ called Pandora’s Box. He has since discharged himself from hospital.

Police were also called about 5.40pm to The Butts, Rochdale, where a man in his 30s was unconscious after taking what is a suspected ‘legal high’ called ‘Kronic’. He has also been taken to hospital.

A fourth call came in at about 5.50pm, where a man in his 40s is believed to have taken ‘legal highs’ near the junction of Drake Street and Oldham Road in Rochdale. He too has been taken to hospital but is believed to be conscious.

Detective Insp Lee Hopwood of GMP’s Rochdale Borough said: “Despite issuing warnings about the dangers of these so called ‘legal highs’, these are now the latest people to have been taken ill after taking them in the past few days.

“I cannot stress enough how dangerous they are and even though they might not be illegal, please do not take the risk. They can seriously harm you and in the case of these men they are now in hospital because of it.

“Please think about the effects these substances and do not take them. If you think someone you know might have taken ‘legal highs’ then please get medical attention immediately."

Symptoms include:

• Profuse sweating 
• Racing heartbeat 
• Extreme muscle tension 
• Delirious ranting 
• Very high body temperature

Anyone with information about where this drug may have come from is asked to contact police on 101 as soon as possible, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

For help or advice on all drugs including ‘legal highs’ Talk to Frank by calling 0800 777 6600 or visiting www.talktofrank.com.