A bag containing potentially fatal drugs has been stolen from the back of an ambulance in Telford.

Police today made an appeal to find the drugs after the ambulance crew discovered the bag was missing about 7am.

It is not clear when the drugs, which could cause heart failure, were taken, but the crew had a number of jobs in the Telford area during the night.

Suzie Fothergill, West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “It is extremely disappointing anyone would consider taking anything off the back of an ambulance.

“However, our concern is the damage these drugs could do to someone who does not know what they are. Some of these drugs are cardio-active and therefore could cause heart failure if used incorrectly.

“It is important people understand all of the drugs taken have the potential to cause irreversible damage or even death unless taken appropriately.

“I am concerned they might be discarded and found by someone who may be tempted to use them and cause themselves or others serious harm.

“These drugs are used to save the lives of people with serious illnesses and by someone taking them, it could have potentially put the lives of many people at risk.”

Anyone with information about the stolen bag, which is red, should ring Telford police on 0300 333 3000.