A blanket ban on legal highs comes into force today.

Laws criminalising the production, distribution, sale and supply of the drugs took effect from midnight. 

Offenders will face up to seven years behind bars under the Psychoactive Substances Act.

Ahead of the ban, a survey by YMCA suggested that overall usage would decrease but around two thirds of young people who currently take the drugs are likely to continue using them in the future. 

But there have been warning the ban could drive dealers on to the so-called "dark-web".

The Act covers all substances which are capable of affecting the central nervous system but excludes everyday substances such as alcohol, tobacco, food, nicotine, caffeine and medical products.

Alkyl nitrates, also known as poppers, will also not be included in the legislation, but Nitrous Oxide will be included if it is being sold for recreational purposes.

The Act is not aiming to criminalise people who possess the substances, but rather those who are producing, importing or supplying them.

People found ordering the substances from websites could face prosecution under the act, and could now face legal consequences for sharing psychoactive drugs among their friends.

Acting detective chief superintendent, Ray Howard, head of intelligence and specialist operations, said: "I am pleased that Thames Valley Police will now be able to take action to prevent the sale and distribution of these substances, which can be highly addictive and have many associated risks, including negative consequences to a person’s mental health.

“It is important that businesses and the public are aware of the new rules.

“These new laws are a step forward and will have a positive effect on the Thames Valley.”