Laughing gas cannisters are being left littered across Braintree town centre.

The former legal highs, now outlawed, are being inhaled in public without fear of reprisals despite the risks involved.

Councillor Andrew Hensman is warning the nitrous oxide could become a gateway drug for young people who will move onto harder drugs.

He said: “This is a modern day substance abuse, much like glue sniffing or aerosol.

“It is concerning but you see it on every street.

“It comes back to what we always see about priorities, but this is not a priority unfortunately.

“But you do fear what it will lead to.”

Handfuls of the cannisters were found by the fountain outside St Michael’s church last week, as well as throughout the town, particularly at the bus station.

Mr Hensman said: “I spoke to a 90-year-old lady who picked a handful up the other day, and had no clue what they where.

“Apart from using, it is litter and what is most concerning is how easy these are to come by.

“Where they have other uses, you can go into a shop and buy them or buy them in bulk online. “ The councillor, and neighbourhood watch chairman, admitted this type of crime is hard to police, but wants to see community involvement deter users.

Chief Insp Craig Carrington, Braintree’s district commander, said: “They are illegal and they dangerous.

“I would encourage people who witness use, or find evidence of use, to contact the police and we will attend.

“It is something we will look into, balanced against our resources.”