PRESCRIPTION drugs that could kill a child have been lost on a bus. The packets of Diazepam and Nitrazepam were left on the No 182 between Twydall and Chatham, just before 1pm on Friday.

Both drugs are sleeping tablets which, in small doses, could send a child to sleep but, if particularly strong, could be fatal.

Diazepam is a sedative and muscle relaxant often given to insomniacs, epileptics, people with severe anxiety or alcoholics attempting to quit drinking.

Nitrazepam is for insomnia. Both could make a child nauseous, dizzy and depressed.

Pharmacist Mathew Makinda, of Brompton Pharmacy, said: "Depending on the strength, the side effects of both drugs could kill a child. The normal affects of the drug on an adult are magnified in a child because of the smaller body mass."

Police are urging anyone who finds the drugs to take them to the nearest police station or to call 01634 884252.