Van left idling leads police to laughing gas stash

Police recovered a large quantity of laughing gas canisters after a "silly driver" left a van idling for several hours.

Thames Valley Police officers in Wycombe were tipped off about a parked van which had its engine running for most of Friday, with no sign of the owner.

They carried out checks and discovered 21 boxes of nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas.

The street value of the Class C drug, which is illegal to possess or supply, was estimated at £1,400.

"One rather silly driver leaving their van unsecure was a costly mistake for them," said the force in a social media post.

The spokesperson said as well as removing the gas canisters, the uninsured and untaxed van had also been taken "off the streets".

Praising those who had got in contact about the suspicious vehicle, the force added: "Remember, if you see something that doesn't feel right to you, let us know - it can help lead to finds like this."

Nitrous oxide, also called NOS, is a colourless gas commonly used as an analgesic - a painkiller - in medicine and dentistry, and for producing whipped cream.

Its recreational use soared during the pandemic. It is one of the most-used drugs by 16 to 24-year-olds in the UK.

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