A BAN on 'legal highs' comes into effect across the UK tomorrow, with police warning those supplying or producing the drugs could face seven years behind bars. 

The Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 will be effective from this Thursday and makes it an offence to produce, supply, offer to supply, possess with intent to supply, import or export psychoactive substances.

It covers all substances capable of affecting the central nervous system but doesn't include everyday substances such as alcohol, tobacco, food, nicotine, caffeine and medical products.

Acting Det Ch Supt Ray Howard, Head of Intelligence and Specialist Operations, said: “I am pleased that Thames Valley Police will now be able to take action to prevent the sale and distribution of these substances, which can be highly addictive and have many associated risks, including negative consequences to a person’s mental health.

“It is important that businesses and the public are aware of the new rules.

“These new laws are a step forward and will have a positive effect on the Thames Valley.”

Nitrous Oxide, known as laughing gas or 'hippy crack, is also now banned under the new act. 

However Alkyl nitrates, otherwise known as poppers, are not a banned substance in the new legislation.  

The Act is designed to target those who are producing or supplying the substances, and will carry a maximum sentence of seven years’ imprisonment.

For more information and advice contact your local drug treatment centre or the charityFRANK.