THE change of the law today which effectively bans the sale of so-called legal highs will be welcomed by virtually every parent.

But for at least three families, the change may have been too late to save their teenage sons.

As we report today, one mother has spoken of her shock and distress after her 16-year-old and his two friends almost died after sniffing a tiny amount of a so-called legal high.

For her sake, and the sake of anyone who has had family members affected by this, the change in the law which makes it illegal to produce, supply, possess with intent to supply or import or export psychoactive substances – legal highs – is a welcome one.

Police, health professionals and support workers have become increasingly concerned about the prevalence of these substances, and their easy availability in the district. One drugs advice worker described the trend as being "the most worrying development in our sector".

There have been concerns that making them illegal would drive trade underground and make it more difficult to enforce. But at least this law makes it very clear selling or supplying these drugs is illegal, and that will make it much more difficult for youngsters like the three we feature today to put themselves at risk by experimenting.

It is vital that this new law is enforced rigorously from the start – and Bradford police have indicated today they are set to do just that.

Those who peddle these psychoactive substances, in the knowledge that they are potentially lethal and now illegal, should expect swift action and strong punishment.