POLICE investigating the death of a North-East teenager have issued a warning over what is feared could be a rogue batch of ecstasy tablets.

Gareth Gordon Forster, 18, from Ferryhill, County Durham, was taken to the University Hospital of North Durham, in Durham City, in the early hours of Sunday, but died later.

A post-mortem examination failed to establish the cause of the former Ferryhill Business and Enterprise College pupil’s death and the results of toxicology tests are awaited. However, there are indications he may have had access to ecstasy tablets, known as red rockstars or red stars, which may be linked to his death.

Five men, two aged 18 and three aged 19, arrested on suspicion of supplying illegal drugs, have been released on bail pending further police inquiries.

Spennymoor police said officers were concerned that ecstasy tablets, known as red rockstars, are circulating in the Ferryhill area. A spokesman said: “We would urge anyone in possession of them to dispose of them or, alternatively, hand them in to their local police station.”

Mr Forster’s family declined to comment and police have not released the Bishop Auckland College student’s address.

Detective Inspector Caroline Dawson issued a warning reminding people about the risks of illegal drug use.

Det Insp Dawson said: “This is a tragic death of a young man which may be linked to illegal drugs use, and should serve as a reminder to others of the risks involved in this socalled recreational activity.

“Our advice is simple – don’t take them. Not only are they illegal but they are potentially extremely dangerous. We particularly want people to be aware of red rockstar, a form of ecstasy.

“I must stress, the area does not have a particular problem with illegal drug taking, but we always take a robust approach when drug taking or dealing is suspected.”

Call 0345-60-60-365 with information about drug taking.