Woman feared to have died after taking mephedrone

A 24-year-old woman is believed to be the latest victim of "party drug" mephedrone, police say.

The woman, who has not been identified, was found dead at an address in Norton, near Malton, North Yorkshire, on Monday morning by a friend.

Detectives believe the woman may have taken mephedrone, also known as M-Cat or miaow miaow.

This latest tragedy follows the deaths of Louis Wainwright, 18, and Nicholas Smith, 19, who died in Scunthorpe last week following a night out.

North Yorkshire Police issued a stark warning about the dangers of the drug as it made an appeal for anyone who may have seen the victim in the last couple of days to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Nigel Costello said: "Although at this time it cannot be determined whether mephedrone is present within the deceased's system or whether the drug played any part in her death, the police would like to warn people about the use of the drug and its potentially lethal consequences. If you have used this drug and feel unwell then you should seek urgent medical assistance."