COUNCILLORS in York are calling for urgent action on nitrous oxide after several large canisters have been found in recent weeks, including in a children's play area.

Councillor Andrew Waller, Liberal Democrat councillor for Westfield Ward, is calling for greater action on nitrous oxide use in public places and an information campaign following the discovery of a number of commercial sized canisters in recent weeks across the community.

Whilst Parliament has voted to make possession of laughing gas illegal from November 8, there will still be sources for hospitals and catering, and the Cllr Waller said catering canisters are the ones that area appearing on the streets having been discarded.

Cllr Waller said: “The priority must be to get across to young people the dangers of a gas like this and the long-term damage it can do to their bodies, particularly nerve damage to their spine.

"In recent weeks, I have had reports from three volunteer litter pickers have found one on their routes and one was found in a play area.

“Whilst there may be a crackdown on the legislation, there are too many potential sources of nitrous oxide available for young people that is clearly being marketed to them.

"There is a need for education of the dangers and legal enforcement on companies trying to make a profit from this supply.”

Earlier this year, North Yorkshire Police officer issued a warning about the dangers of nitrous oxide after they noticed increased reports of empty canisters of gas being found in open areas where young people congregate across the county.

Officers said it can be "extremely dangerous" and called for parents to be vigilant for signs that their children are purchasing it.

York Press: Nitrous oxide canistersNitrous oxide canisters (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson for the police force said: "People may believe that because the gas is widely available and easily purchased, that it’s harmless.

"However, inhaling it can lead to unconsciousness and ultimately suffocation, as the body is essentially starved of oxygen.

"There is also evidence to show that people with heart conditions can be at higher risk of harm and that inhalation can lead to anaemia or long-term nerve damage.

"If you see any suspicious activity where you think nitrous oxide is being consumed, please report it to the police via 101 or the North Yorkshire Police website."

The Press's sister paper, Bradford Telegraph & Argus, has been pushing for a ban on the gas - also known as 'hippy crack' - due to the serious effects it can have on users.