WILTSHIRE Police is issuing an urgent warning about the dangers of illegal drugs after a 23-year-old man has been left fighting for his life.

The man, from Swindon, is in a critical condition in the Great Western Hospital after it is believed he consumed a small green pill with a dollar sign on it ($).

Forensic tests are being undertaken on the tablet to ascertain what type of drug it is but Wiltshire Police is issuing a stark warning to anyone thinking of taking illegal drugs.

Head of Swindon CID Detective Inspector Lisa Clarke said: “What is really disturbing in this case is the sheer pace at which this man’s health declined.

“His temperature was extremely high so paramedics rushed him to hospital, where he is now critically ill.

“I would urge everyone to steer clear of illegal drugs of every variety but it seems this incident might be linked to a specific drug – a small green pill which has a dollar sign on it.

"I am concerned that there may be a quantity of contaminated illegal drugs in our communities which, if unchecked, could result in further illness.

“If anyone has taken this drug in the last few days, we would urge that you seek immediate medical attention and anyone with information as to where it is being sold should contact us straight away. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555 where information can be left anonymously.