REVELLERS are being warned about the dangers of potentially lethal ‘legal high’ drug ahead of Parklife Festival.

Tests conducted by police on the legal high Vertex, also known as Space Cadet, show that one product contained potentially lethal chemicals.

Detectives say intelligence suggests that Vertex is being routinely sold by both retail outlets and local street dealers which are believed to be bulk purchasing it from Bolton.

The drug is advertised as a type of incense and can be bought on the internet.

Following tests conducted by Cheshire Police, results revealed that a chemical named AB –CHIMINACA was present.

The chemical is believed to have been responsible for deaths in Europe, and a woman in Warrington was said to be in a serious condition after taking it.

People who have taken the drug may start to sweat profusely, have a racing heartbeat, suffer from extreme muscle tension, delirous ranting or a high body temperature.

Police issued the warning as thousands of people are set to descend on Heaton Park for the Parklife Festival this weekend.

Chief Inspector Gary Simpson, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “The use of ‘legal highs’ is a worrying trend and we have been working closely with Cheshire Police to issue urgent warnings after a number of people were hospitalised in Cheshire after taking Vertex.

“This weekend thousands of people will descend upon Manchester for the Parklife Weekender festival and I want to remind people about the potentially lethal dangers of ‘legal highs’.

“They are a group of drugs that are not yet illegal, but just because they are legal it doesn’t mean they are safe.

“I would urge people not to buy or take this, or any other, of these so-called ‘legal highs’ and to consider the danger they pose; you could be playing Russian Roulette with your life.

“I would advise anyone supplying, using or considering using Vertex to stop immediately before it’s too late.

“If you have taken it, seek medical assistance now. If you are at Parklife this weekend and start to feel unwell after taking a ‘legal high’, please go to medical facility on-site immediately.”

Jon Drape, event director of Parklife, added: “Parklife has a zero tolerance policy to both illegal drugs and 'legal highs’.

“Anyone found with either on entry will be denied entry to the festival. Anyone caught taking, using, or selling illegal drugs or "legal highs" within the festival will be ejected and handed over to Greater Manchester Police.”