Over-sized vapes were among thousands of unlawful devices seized in the county.

Kent County Council Trading Standards discovered 6,807 illegal vapes during various raids over a fortnight.

Some devices were six times the legal limit of 12ml of liquid and others registered a strength of 50mg/ml which is two and a half times over the legal limit.

The remaining 5,048 vapes seized did not have the required approvals from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), meaning there was no manufacturer guarantee the vapes were free of dangerous substances.

Others failed to meet the labelling requirements necessary to make the product safe.

Vapeman, Magic Bar, Elf Bar and Geek Bar Pro were among the brands seized.

Principal Trading Standards officer Oliver Jewell said: “Kent Trading Standards is working hard to get these hazardous products off the shelves.

“Disposable e-cigarette devices are considered trendy and appeal to young people. They are also designed to help smokers break the habit.

“But with the surge in popularity of vaping, some products are being rushed onto the UK market, or diverted from other overseas markets, and may not have been through the full UK checks to make sure they are safe.

“As a result, illegal vapes can pose a danger to health. Business who sells vapes that don’t have the right approvals are also breaking the law and could face fines.”

Kent County Council cabinet member for community and regulatory services, Cllr Mike Hill, said: “We are concerned about the high volume of devices found that failed to meet the required safety standards.

“We want consumers and businesses to always check products meet safety requirements so no one’s health is put at risk.

“If anyone has concerns illegal vapes are being sold, including to young people, please report them to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline 0808 223 1133.

“Kent business wanting help and advice can contact Trading Standards by calling 03000 412020 or emailing TSbusinessadvice@kent.gov.uk.”