LAUGHING gas is causing concern in Ascot and the Sunnings after evidence emerged of widespread usage.

Hundreds of used silver canisters containing the substance were discovered between Christmas and New Year in a secluded footpath in Greenways Drive, Sunningdale.

Dubbed by some as ‘hippy crack’, the small canisters filled with nitrous oxide have been hitting the headlines after many high-profile footballers were filmed consuming the gas.

“What I am concerned about is how impressionable young people are and how this seems to be getting worse,” said one Ascot resident and parent, who preferred not to be named.

“I have no idea who these people were that were taking this substance but I regularly use that footpath when I walk my dog and the number of canisters left is alarming.

“I have read so many horror stories where teenagers have inhaled this gas for a bit of a joke and been drinking at the same time and it’s a recipe for disaster.”

Despite it being a legal high, the sale of laughing gas was banned by the government in September 2015 as they attempted to clamp down on the problem.

Risks of inhaling the gas include losing consciousness, nerve damage, reduction of vitamin B12, while mixing with alcohol can lead to increased accidents or death.

After reported sightings of the canisters at other parks in Ascot and the surrounding areas, the neighbourhood watch stressed a warning should be circulated to parents.

The schools officer for Thames Valley Police, police constable Graham Slater, will be going into primary schools to teach children the dangers of the drug.

The Royal Borough’s drug and alcohol team has produced a leaflet that will be distributed to further warn of the implications.

“The council works hard to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use and this covers nitrous oxide or laughing gas,” a spokesman for the Royal Borough, said.

“Activities include drug and alcohol awareness sessions in local schools and work by the community wardens to identify where usage takes place.”

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said he was unable to comment on individual cases without substantial details, but he stressed the force’s stance on the issue.

“Thames Valley Police will take action to prevent the sale and distribution of these substances, which can be highly addictive and have many associated risks,” he said.

“Our approach to tackling psychoactive substances will be balanced, practical, proportionate, and based on individual circumstances.”