A MAN has been arrested following an incident in which two young women fell seriously ill after taking a drug called ‘Golden Monkey’.

Police have said a 20-year-old Weymouth man has been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of ecstasy and is currently assisting police with enquiries.

Both women were taken seriously ill at Dorset County Hospital but are now in a stable condition.

Police are warning the public of the dangers of taking a drug called ‘Golden Monkey’ after the two women fell ill.

Their condition was described as 'serious' over the weekend but this morning police said both women are in a stable condition. They remain in hospital.

At 8.23am yesterday it was reported to Dorset Police that a 19-year-old woman and a 20-year-old woman, both from Weymouth, had been taken to hospital after using the substance.

Chief Inspector Jim Beashel, of Dorset Police, said: “Officers are investigating the circumstances of the incident.

“We want to warn members of the public of the dangers of taking such drugs as anyone consuming them could be putting their health and even their life in serious danger.

"I would strongly advise those thinking of taking such substances to think again. You can’t be sure what you’re taking and the side-effects are unpredictable and potentially life-threatening.

“If anyone has any information with regard to the sale of illegal drugs please do not hesitate to report it.”

Police said they had been made aware of the incident after the women had been admitted to hospital.

It is not known if they took the drug on a night out in Weymouth or at a private address.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 24:130.