Wiltshire Police have recovered and safely disposed of 12 nitrous oxide canisters found discarded on the outskirts of Tidworth.
The discovery, earlier this month, comes as a Wiltshire councillor revealed he had found similar canisters near ancient burial mounds between Amesbury and Bulford.
Officers from the Amesbury Neighbourhood Policing Team recently collected the 12 canisters, which are commonly associated with the recreational use of laughing gas.
Nitrous oxide is classified as a Class C drug, meaning its unlawful possession or supply is a criminal offence.
Police have warned that misuse of the substance can have serious health consequences and has been linked to antisocial behaviour and impaired driving.
Reform UK councillor Kevin Asplin, who represents Amesbury East and Bulford, said he had also discovered discarded canisters while carrying out a litter pick in September.
He said: “I found two of these on the top of the hill between Amesbury and Bulford at the end of September whilst out litter sweeping.
“There is plenty of evidence that the tumuli on the top of the hill is a favoured site for youths to meet up.”
It is not known who discarded the canisters recovered in Tidworth or those discovered by Cllr Asplin.
Wiltshire Police is encouraging residents with information about the illegal use or supply of nitrous oxide to contact the Amesbury Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Information can be provided by emailing [email protected], calling 101 or using the online reporting form at www.wiltshire.police.uk.
