CHILDREN are breaking into a disused factory to guzzle dangerous, out-of-date energy drinks.

Police said youngsters were accessing the caffeine-based Bomba' drinks, which are three years passed their use by date, from a disused factory in Lower Hollin Bridge Street, Blackburn.

The streets in the surrounding area have been littered with smashed glass bottles after the drinks have been consumed.

Officers do not know how many of the drinks are in circulation but warned parents that they could cause illness because they are so old.

The drinks are also unsuitable for children due to the additives and caffeine which can cause hyper activity.

They come packaged in a bottle which is designed to look like a hand grenade.

Police Community Support Officer Michelle Mayer said: "Children have been helping themselves freely to these drinks and we would like parents to be aware of their own children having access to theses drinks. If drinks are found they are to be disposed of immediately.

"We would also like all Blackburn schools in the area to be vigilant of children bringing these drinks into schools.

"The police officer for Witton Park High is already aware of the problem and has had strong words with the children at the school advising them not to drink these drinks.

"They have an out of date mark on the label of 2005 which makes them nearly three years out of date."

Exeter Street, Hamilton Street, Hollin Street, East Street and Bombay Street and also the canal tow path have been the worst affected by the littering and smashed bottles.

PSCO Mayer added: "We would kindly remind anyone caught committing such an act that they will be dealt with appropriately by the police.

"The remainder of the drinks are being disposed of by the owners of the drinks company."

Anyone with information about the drinks is advised to contact their local community policing team on 01254 51212.