Anstruther parents furious after syringe found in playpark.

Angry parents call public meeting to discuss fears of growing drugs problem

Children have been warned of the dangers of discarded needles after one was found in their playpark.

Parents were furious to learn that a hypodermic needle had been left near a slide in Anstruther’s popular Bankie Park and told how they had to broach the subject with children as young as five.

The discovery prompted such fear that a child could be infected by a used needle that a public meeting is being called to discuss the issue and air concerns about a perceived growing drug problem in the community.

People have spoken of seeing drug users inject in full public view and needles being found elsewhere.

In the wake of last week’s discovery, police appealed to residents to report any drugs-related activity they witness.

East Neuk and Landward councillor Linda Holt said several anxious constituents had approached her about the scourge.

She said: “For the first time discarded needles are appearing in local play areas and junkies have been seen shooting up in public.

“Residents see the drug-runners plying their trade, and although the arrest of a local drug dealer recently has been welcomed, it has not curbed the problem as other suppliers in the Neuk remain active.

“People feel helpless and are rightly worried about their children’s safety. They don’t know what to do if they find needles.

“Police services in Anstruther have been steadily reducing, with the police station in March Crescent now completely shut down.

“I am calling on the local police to attend a public meeting in Anstruther where they can hear residents’ concerns, give advice about what people should do if they encounter evidence of illegal drug use and, I hope, allay worries about public safety.”

The needle was disposed of safely by Fife Council.

Police Scotland said it had had only one report this year of a discarded needle in the town, which was found in the Pittenweem Road area, and none of people using drugs in public.

Sergeant Neil Johnston, community sergeant for Anstruther, said: “We have been made aware of concerns within the community regarding drug use and in response have carried out increased high-visibility foot patrols, liaised with local schools and handed leaflets within the community, as well as displayed posters encouraging people to report any concerns about drug crime to us.

“We regularly attend local community council meetings, however anyone with information or concerns is also welcome to contact us through 101 or email the local community policing team at EastNeukLandwardCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk.”

He advised anyone who finds suspected drugs paraphernalia to call Fife Council on 03451 555555.

People feel helpless and are rightly worried about their children’s safety. They don’t know what to do if they find needles. COUNCILLOR LINDA HOLT

Picture: Steven Brown. The discarded needle was found in Bankie Park in Anstruther.