Cylinders of nitrous oxide stolen from hospital in Merthyr Tydfil

Credit: PA

Police are appealing for information after cylinders of nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas", were stolen from a hospital in Merthyr Tydfil.

The 4ft canisters were stolen from Prince Charles Hospital at some point between midnight and 6am on Sunday May 12.

According to the NHS nitrous oxide is a gas with several legitimate uses, but when inhaled it can make people feel euphoric and relaxed leading to its use as a recreational drug.

Canisters of 'laughing gas' scattered on the floor at a festival site. Credit: PA

It's thought a vehicle would have been used in the theft due to the size of the containers.

South Wales Police are warning the public not to buy or use the nitrous oxide cylinders as they could be dangerous.