Swimmer's ecstasy stolen

The tablets have the "Mitsubishi" logo on them

Police in Merseyside have issued a warning after 25 ecstasy tablets were stolen from a bag.

Officers in Birkenhead were alerted after a man said the illegal class A drugs had been stolen from his bag while he was swimming.

The man had left the blue holdall on a bridge before going for the swim in the marina at Edgerton Wharf, between 1500 BST and 1700 BST on Wednesday.

Merseyside Police said on Thursday the large, white tablets have the "Mitsubishi" logo on them, and could be "extremely dangerous" if taken.

The man told police that while he was in the water he noticed a group of children, aged between 10 and 15, standing near the bag.

'Medical advice'

On his return, he discovered the tablets, which were in a clear clip-topped bag, had gone, along with his wallet, money and a cash card.

A Merseyside police spokeswoman said: "Police are warning young people and parents to be aware of the theft in the Birkenhead area.

"We would also appeal for the tablets to be handed in to a police station as soon as possible.

"These tablets could be extremely dangerous if consumed. Anyone who thinks they may have taken one should seek medical advice immediately."

Anyone who knows anything about the theft should contact Birkenhead police station or ring Crimestoppers.