PATIENTS across the district who were prescribed slimming pills from a clinic in Harlow are advised to contact their GP for healthcare advice following a drugs offences investigation.

The Easyslim clinic, in the Latton Bush business centre, Harlow, has been closed following the arrest and charge of 57-year-old Sudesh Madan, of Homeway, Romford in relation to drugs supply offences.

Investigating officer Det Supt Jane Swinburne said: “Anyone who has been prescribed tablets at these clinics should make contact with their GP or a local pharmacist who can offer further healthcare advice.

"This inquiry will continue for some time but our priority at the moment is making sure those who have attended these clinics are aware of the situation.

"We have already posted messages at the clinics to warn the public and wanted to make a wider appeal.”

Easyslim had five clinics in Essex, Hertfordshire and Yorkshire.

Madan is due to appear at Central Hertfordshire Magistrates Court, in St Albans, on January 13.

A 62-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of money-laundering in connection with the investigation and has been released on bail.