News

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

Published

9 years ago

February 3, 2016

A 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.

Community

Pembrokeshire County Council launches festive info hub

Published

49 mins ago

December 3, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WITH the festive season fast approaching, Pembrokeshire County Council has made it easier than ever to access essential service updates for Christmas and New Year.

The council’s website now features an updated ‘Christmas in Pembrokeshire’ page, providing answers to key holiday queries such as bin collection schedules and free parking availability.

Residents can also find information about leisure centre and library opening times, winter driving tips, bus timetables, salting routes, and a guide to Christmas markets across the county.

The page includes reminders about recycling rules, including what can and cannot be recycled, as well as details on Christmas tree recycling services.

For everything you need to know this festive season, visit https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/christmas-in-pembrokeshire.

Crime

Motorist almost three times over drink limit

Published

1 hour ago

December 3, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A MOTORIST who was nearly three times over the drink-drive limit has been sentenced following a crash on the B4314 in Pendine.

Stuart Rickford, 43, was driving his Audi at 1:30pm on November 15 when he collided with another vehicle.

“There were no injuries, but when officers spoke to the defendant they had a strong smell of intoxicants,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told the court.

A roadside breath test proved positive, and Rickford, of Beach Hotel, Marsh Road, Pendine, later gave a reading of 93 mcg of alcohol at the police station. The legal limit is 35.

Rickford pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order with 80 hours of unpaid work. He was disqualified from driving for 23 months and ordered to pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Crime

Man jailed for threats at Withybush Hospital

Published

1 hour ago

December 3, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A HAVERFORDWEST man has been sentenced to seven days in custody after threatening to harm members of the public at Withybush Hospital.

Wayne Tydeman, 42, made threats while speaking to a community practice nurse following his release from a 24-week custodial sentence.

“He was on post-sentence supervision, and this is the first breach,” probation officer Julie Norman told the court.

Tydeman, of Dew Street, Haverfordwest, was remanded in custody and appeared via video link from Park Prison. His solicitor said his mental health had improved during his time in custody.