A second man has died after taking an “unusually strong batch” of heroin in North Devon, police have said.

The first man died as a result of taking the Class A drug on Friday and a second man, who had been admitted to hospital earlier, died on Saturday night.

Devon and Cornwall Police said his death is believed to be as a result of taking the same substance.

A total of 10 people, including the man who died, have been treated in hospital. Two people are still being treated.

Two men and two women arrested on suspicion of being involved in the supply of a controlled substance have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Officers and partner agencies became aware of what was “locally thought to be an unusual batch of heroin” circulating in Westward Ho!, Bideford and Barnstaple at 5pm on Friday evening, police said.

A major incident was declared, before being stood down on Saturday morning.

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