Fears of widespread abuse after horde of gas canisters found

SCORES of mini gas canisters, used as a form of solvent abuse, have been found at a Fife beauty spot.

A large number of nitrous oxide gas canisters were dumped, along with beer cans and spirit bottles, at Coul Den nature reserve in Glenrothes.

Residents say the area is being regularly targeted by youths intent on abusing the “laughing gas” which, if taken in large quantities, can give the user a high but also trigger dizziness and blackouts.

Users also run the risk of falling unconscious or suffocating from lack of oxygen. Regular use can stop the body from forming white blood cells properly.

Fears have been raised the abuse of the gas canisters, referred to as “buzz cans” or “hippie crack”, could be growing after similar discoveries in the town in recent weeks.

Glenrothes resident Gary McIntosh, who found the cache while walking his dog, said: “I have seen them in a few areas but not in this sort of capacity. It’s quite a worrying issue. I don’t think those using this gas realise the dangers.”

Denise Wallace of North Glenrothes Community Council has warned parents to be on the lookout.

“The abuse is something we’ve not come across before and obviously there are associated health risks which is why we are calling for people to remain vigilant and report any further findings to the police.

“We are also urging anyone who ventures up to Coul Den or similar beauty spots to leave nothing but a footprint and bring away any rubbish.”

Sergeant Cheryl Young from Glenrothes police office said they’d not been informed of widespread use of the gas, adding: “Anyone with information should contact police on 101, or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”