Patrols pledge after ‘hippy crack’ find

POLICE are to carry out patrols near Alan Moss Road allotments after more than 50 empty ‘hippy crack’ canisters were found by allotment holders.

Nitrous oxide canisters - or ‘hippy crack’ canisters as they are also known as - were found in the car park for the allotments in Loughborough on Wednesday, December 13.

The silver canisters are often remnants left behind after people inhale the gas commonly used as a party drug.

The gardener, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Echo that in the past they have also found other items in the car park, including needles and foil with burnt substances.

Police told the Echo that they had received a report of the canisters being found on December 13, but that they had not received any further reports of drug misuse in the area.

Inspector Dwight Barker from Charnwood neighbourhood policing area said that the police take people’s concerns regarding drugs misuse “seriously” and that following the report, the local beat team will be carrying out high visibility patrols, in particular during the evenings.

The concerned allotment holder said that last week allotment holders were presented with a pile of more than 50 canisters and balloons.

According to the allotment holder the police and council have been informed on many occasions about this problem and he said that allotment holders have been asked to take the registrations of any cars that have no right being parked in the area.

He added: “Numbers have been taken and the occupants of the cars have been warned that their num- bers will be passed on to the authorities, this usually results in the cars being frantically driven off, however most of the activity happens under the cover of darkness so it is not reported.

“It’s so obvious that the occupants have been up to no good, possibly dealing, but the problem persists.

“I think an occasional drive in by a passing squad car would result in some arrests and maybe send the message that this behaviour will not be tolerated.”

Insp Barker said: “We would encourage local people to make us aware of any concerns so we, and other agencies, can address the issues raised.

“We understand vehicle registrations were noted by a local resident however the information was not passed on to the police.

“If anyone has information about drugs misuse or anti-social behaviour in Alan Moss Road they should contact local officers or call 101.”