A dad-of-two says he was left “disgusted” after finding a blood-spattered needle at a Dundee playpark.
The drugs paraphernalia was found on Sunday afternoon underneath a slide at Finlathen Park on Fountainbleau Drive.
The 37-year-old man – who did not wish to be named – said there was also “visible residue” inside the used needle.
He says several children, including his boys – aged four and seven – were playing nearby at the time.
He said: “When I came into the playpark with my two boys it was busy with young kids.
“There were at least five other families in the play area during the time we were there.
“I noticed the used needle under the chute. There were blood spatters and some residue of whatever had been inside it.
“You’d like to think children would be safe at a playpark but I was disgusted at what I’d found.
“There was a council worker nearby and I called him over and the worker was thankfully able to remove them.”
The dad also found a capped needle nearby.
‘Curious’ kids could have picked up needle
He added: “My concern is that these were potentially sitting in the playpark all night.
“Kids are obviously curious – you worry they would have picked them up totally unaware of what they are.”
Councillor Jax Finnegan, whose North East council ward covers Finlathen Park, said: “This is an unacceptable display of anti-social behaviour that has potential to cause serious injury and harm to the health of others through puncture of the skin and transmission of blood-borne viruses.
“There is absolutely no reason for people who inject drugs to discard equipment in this manner, as sharps bins can be and are provided by drugs services.
“Dundee City Council cleansing workers who keep our communities clean, tidy and safe see this issue all too often; they continually face the risks associated with inappropriate disposal of drug equipment.
“This remains an issue to be tackled across Scotland.
“I thank the observant individual for raising the alarm and protecting others. I would encourage anyone who finds equipment to contact council immediately to ensure safety.
“We, as a community, need to be vigilant to protect our young people. Our playparks are for play and recreation and not for the consumption of drugs.”
Dundee City Council says locals can call 01382 433063, 24 hours a day, to contact the rapid response team for the removal of dangers like needles.
