MORE evidence has been found of youngsters in Teignbridge using potentially lethal nitrous oxide.

Fifteen small empty canisters, which officers believe contained the gas – commonly known as laughing gas – were discovered outside the Ashburton information centre.

The find follows an incident in Moretonhampstead on carnival night when a group of youths, aged between 15 and 18, were seen passing around the canister-type dispensers in Sentry Park.

Ashburton PCSO Robbie Mangham confirmed the 15 used canisters had been found in the town.

He warned: ‘To reiterate what our Sgt Mark Ruston has already said and to all the young adults in the town, this is a dangerous drug that deprives the brain of oxygen and can cause heart attacks in some cases.

‘Any parent who has concerns about their child possibly using or being involved with drugs feel free to contact me for advice.’

More than half a dozen deaths nationally have been linked with recreational use of the gas.