POLICE are raising awareness of a 'popular but dangerous' drug known as laughing gas after the increase in the number of empty canisters left in public places.

The canisters contain the drug Nitrous Oxide, also known as laughing gas - a legal high which has grown increasingly popular with teenagers and young people.

The police want to inform the public about what the canisters are in hopes of increasing awareness of the drug's side effects.

Although it is not a classified drug, it is illegal to sell laughing gas and police say it can have a lasting effect on the lives of those who use it.

Police Sergeant Becky Fishwick from Banbury Police Station said “We have seen an increased use of Nitrous Oxide gas by the teenagers and young adults in the community.

“We are increasing awareness to educate any young people thinking of using Nitrous Oxide, of what the potential life changing and fatal effects can be and also to advise parents of the signs to look for in young people that are using the gas.

“If you come across any canisters within your area please contact the police through 101.”

Known on the street as 'hippy crack', it is a popular drug due to the short-lived euphoric and relaxed feeling it gives the user when it's inhaled, with some users reporting hallucinations.

It is not addictive but prolonged use of the drug can lead to brain and nerve damage and it has been linked with anemia, tinnitus and numbness.

In some extreme cases youngsters have died after using it.

It is illegal to sell Nitrous Oxide and anyone with any information about the sale of it should contact police via 101.