Twelve people have been admitted to hospital in the Highlands after suffering a severe reaction to non-prescription drugs.

Police and medical staff fielded a number of calls on Saturday night from people in the Fort William area who had taken the tablets, which they believed were valium.

A dozen people were treated for effects at Belford Hospital, some of whom have been kept in for observation.

Symptoms include unconsciousness, lack of responsiveness, nausea and dizziness.

Northern Constabulary said they were investigating how the tablets came into circulation.

NHS Highland have urged people not to take any tablets which have not been prescribed by a doctor.

Public health consultant Rob Henderson said: "Taking illicit drugs is extremely hazardous. We would urge drug users if they are unable to abstain from drugs to follow harm reduction advice to reduce the risk.

"There is no way to make taking illicit drugs completely safe. NHS Highland works closely with the Highland Alcohol and Drug Partnership, Northern Constabulary, Highland Council and our other partners to tackle these issues.

"I would advise anyone who has concerns about drugs to contact the relevant organisations for advice and support.”

The tablets are described as brown or blue, with letters on one side.

Anyone who believes they own the tablets should hand them in to either Fort William police station or Belford Hospital, or call NHS 24 on 08454 242424.