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Illegal drugs found in more than one-in-five ‘legal high’ samples

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legalsA NEW report has found that 21% of ‘legal high’ samples collected in Wales contained an amount of various controlled substances.

This percentage shows that people can never be sure of what is in so-called ‘legal highs’, or be certain that what lies within complies with UK drug laws.

This figure was revealed in the Welsh Emerging Drugs and Identification of Novel Substances Project (WEDINOS) Annual Report 2014-2015, published on February 3 by Public Health Wales.

The report found that many of the packaged ‘branded’ products available in shops and via the internet contained more than one drug.

The report also revealed that of the 76 MDMA/Ecstasy samples submitted for testing, nearly half did not contain MDMA. 14% of controlled samples were also found to contain a non-controlled ‘New Psychoactive Substance’ compound.

The samples were submitted anonymously by individuals and organisations including youth and substance misuse services, night clubs and bars, mental health community teams, the ambulance service and police.

The average age for all mind altering/psychoactive sample providers was 36, but ranged from 14 to 68 years old.

Josie Smith, Programme and National Lead for Substance Misuse at Public Health Wales, said: “These findings provide stark evidence that people can never be sure of what is in ‘legal highs’ – which we call ‘new psychoactive substances’. Most importantly, people are at risk of experiencing a range of adverse physical and psychological effects.”

Smith continued: “New psychoactive substances coming onto the market in Wales and across Europe pose a number of threats, with users at risk of acute harms which are well evidenced in this report. The long-term risks associated with these drugs are currently unknown.”

“It’s important we provide accurate analysis along with pragmatic harm reduction information for users and those considering use so they’re aware of all the risks,” concluded Smith.

Those seeking to receive support for drug or alcohol related concerns can contact the Wales Drug and Alcohol Helpline on freephone 0808 808 2234, by texting DAN to 81066 or by visiting dan247.org.uk.

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Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

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Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

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Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

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SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

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Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

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ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.

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