POLICE in Redditch and Bromsgrove say they are ready to use new powers to tackle so-called 'legal highs' including stop and search.

New legislation covering psychoactive substances, often referred to as 'legal highs', comes into effect tomorrow Thursday, May 26 with offenders potentially facing up to seven years in prison.

It means there will soon be a blanket ban on the production, supply and importation of these substances.

'Legitimate substances', such as food, alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, caffeine and medical products are excluded.

The legislation will fundamentally change the way police forces tackle these substances and will make new drugs that appear on the market illegal quicker than ever before.

Officers have been given powers to stop and search people, vehicles and vessels, enter and search premises in accordance with a warrant, and to seize and destroy psychoactive substances.