New fears over 'legal high' drug after death of woman, 24, in North Yorkshire

The 24-year-old, who has not yet been identified, was found dead by a friend at an address in Norton yesterday morning.

Investigations are ongoing but North Yorkshire Police said there was a suggestion that mephedrone, also known as Meow Meow or M-Cat, may be a factor.

It follows the deaths last week of two teenagers who apparently took the drug during a night out in Scunthorpe.

Mephedrone's current status as a legal drug has prompted a national debate on whether it should be banned, in line with some other European countries.

The Government is awaiting a report, expected at the end of the month, from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs on so-called legal highs before deciding what action to take.

Det Chief Insp Nigel Costello, of Malton CID, said: "Although at this time it can not be determined whether mephedrone is present within the deceased's system or whether the drug played any part in her death, the police would like to warn people about the use of the drug and its potentially lethal consequences.

"If you have used this drug and feel unwell then you should seek urgent medical assistance.

"If you possess this supposed legal substance then please hand it to the police or dispose of it safely."

North Yorkshire Police asked anyone with any information about the death or the supply of mephedrone in the Malton area to contact the force on 0845 6060247.