PARTNERS worked tirelessly to address the unacceptable impact the shop ‘Nirvana’ was having on the day time economy of Bolton.

Close to Newport Street and the gateway to Bolton it was imperative to address antisocial behaviour and associated offences.

Police led by Sgt Kev Lister and his town centre team were able to attribute a direct correlation to an increase in demand and the taking of ‘legal highs’.

This information was provided to Bolton Council and was pivotal to them leading on a temporary closure notice.

Prior to hearing for full closure the owner of the premises decided to voluntarily close. This was finalised on the February 4.

Although these drugs are marketed as legal substances, this doesn’t mean that they are safe or approved for people to use.

Legal highs can carry serious health risks. The chemicals they contain have in most cases never been used in drugs for human consumption before.

This means they haven't been tested to show that they are safe. Users can never be certain what they are taking and what the effects might be.

I want to raise the awareness in our community of the dangers people are unwittingly putting themselves in.

Most problems with short-term use of legal highs will settle after you stop taking them.

However, the negative effects of some legal highs can take a few days to wear off completely, just like the comedown from stimulants, such as cocaine or amphetamines.

Sadly there is a demand for these products and although this premises is now closed there will be others taking its place.

What can the community do going forward?

• Pass any information about any premises or person selling so-called ‘legal highs’ to the police.

• Report online, by calling 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555. They will never ask your name or trace your call.

• Report if you find any so-called ‘legal high’ packaging, particularly if in the possession of an under 18.

• The highs are branded with various logos and names, ' Black Mamba' and 'Bad Santa' are particularly common.

• Report any incidents of anti-social behaviour or crime that could be attributed to the use of ‘legal highs’.