POLICE are warning drug users to be on their guard following fears that a batch of extra pure heroin may be in circulation in Hyndburn.

The warning comes after one death and four drug overdoses in the last nine days in the area.

Police believe the drug, which they say is unusually pure, may have come from a new dealer who has moved into the area.

Stuart Jamie Page, 26, of Shuttle Close, Accrington, died last week from a suspected drugs overdose.

And four others have received hospital treatment after suffering suspected overdoses.

Heroin is normally cut with other substances to reduce its purity but in this case the batch may contain a high percentage of pure, uncontaminated heroin.

Det Insp Steve Ashley, of Accrington CID, said: "Drug users in the area should be especially vigilant with regard to the risk posed by heroin, particularly in the light of what has happened in the last fortnight.

"They should be aware that there could be a batch of extra pure heroin in circulation."

Earlier this month police swooped on heroin and crack cocaine dealers throughout East Lancashire.

More than 250 officers were involved in Operation Hurricane, during which 28 people were arrested.

Police bosses said the operation was aimed at seriously disrupting the drugs trade in East Lancashire.

A full inquest into Stuart Page's death will be held on November 5.