POLICE have been commended for taking action after ‘dangerous’ sweets ‘that will both rot your teeth and your mind’ were seized.

‘Multiple incidents’ of young people becoming intoxicated from cannabis-infused sweets have been reported in the Lake District.

A police spokesman said the force had made ‘a large number of seizures’ of the sweets, some of which were bound for Windermere.

A male from the local area was ‘released under police investigation on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply’, said the constabulary spokesman.

Inspector Tamara Tatton said: “We urge those who are considering taking Cannabis or other drugs to really think about the consequences of their actions.

“These ‘sweets’ are illegal and dangerous and can prove to be fatal.

“The production of cannabis is illegal and those involved in its production face investigation and prosecution.

“We continue to work closely with our partner agencies to try and stamp out drug use in Cumbria but we also need the public’s help in reporting any information they have about drug use or drug dealing in their area to us.

“Officers from the neighbourhood policing team are also working with schools to educate and raise awareness of the issue to local children."

THC is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis.

Ben Berry, county councillor for Windermere, commended the police for taking action, and said: “Throughout my lifetime there’s been various spikes and instances.

“People think ‘Windermere can’t have a drug problem’, but we have in the past.”

Cllr Berry said the appearance of the packets, as seen in the photo provided by police, could easily deceive someone, with the bags appearing to mimic popular brands.

He said: “It appears innocent, it appears it’s a safe thing that they can do, but clearly you just don’t know what’s in it.

“It would be easy for someone to influence friends and acquaintances and offer them a sweet and that person receiving that sweet wouldn’t know that they contained THC, and it could put them in a compromising position. Clearly they are sweets that will both rot your teeth and your mind.”