REVELLERS at this weekend’s V Festival in Chelmsford could be arrested or face a fine if found in possession of legal highs, Essex Police warn.

Specifically designed to evade drugs legislation, legal highs are marketed as legal alternatives to banned drugs.

However, there is still concern that no one really knows what the exact dangers are, and mixed with alcohol they can be fatal.

Chief Ins Jon Hayter, from Essex Police, said: “A Public Space Protection Order will be in place at V Festival this year, which will mean that any person found to be distributing, selling or consuming so-called legal highs may find themselves with a fixed penalty notice, being arrested or being evicted from the festival.

"This is a positive step in ensuring festival-goers can enjoy a safe event.

“The festival is known for its strong community atmosphere and we want to maintain that without letting people ruin it by committing crime or risking their health by consuming potentially dangerous substances.”

Open Road, an organisation commissioned by Essex County Council’s Drug and Alcohol Team, will be on site at the festival in Hylands Park, Chelmsford, offering drug and alcohol support for the ninth year running. Joni Thompson, Treatment and Quality Manager at Open Road, said: “We’ll be on hand not only to provide welfare and safety services to any festival goers that need help , but also to reduce the impact of drugs and welfare issues on the festival medics.

“Our advice would be that even if you think you know what you’re buying, you can never really be sure. If you don't know what it is, don't take it! If you’re worried about the effects of drugs at any time during the festival you can contact Open Road on 07532 095219.”

Anne Brown, county councilor responsible for healthy living, said: “Essex’s Public health team continue to work with Trading Standards and Police to combat legal highs and address retail sales of legal highs across Essex. All of our treatment services across Essex work with people experiencing problems with any substance.

“We want festival-goers to have fun, but to make healthy and informed choices and not risk their lives. Legal highs or nitrous oxide can result in serious side effects, especially when combined with alcohol. Some contain illegal drugs or can lead to serious medical emergencies and even death.”