A HOAX email is being circulated that warns parents to be on their guard of a new drug that looks and tastes like candy.

Lancashire Police said bogus emails are being sent warning people about a new drug known as 'strawberry quick'.

The email, allegedly on behalf of Greater Manchester Police, describes the substance as a type of crystal meth that looks like strawberry candy.

The author claims it is being handed out to kids in school yards and those who take it are being rushed to hospital in dire condition.

These emails are now being investigated by the police.

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: "The email was sent around the station last week and one of our sergeants looked into it.

"The email turned out to be a hoax."