Drug paraphernalia has been found in the grounds of a Dundee nursery and pre-school centre.
Staff at Technotots Nursery, in Brunel Street, Wester Gourdie Industrial Estate, discovered a syringe, alongside other drug equipment, dumped within the boundary of the property.
Further evidence of drug use was found in the public area just outside Technotots perimeter last week.
Angela McGoldrick, owner and manager of the facility, said: “I’m appalled. It’s very alarming that, in a care setting, anyone would act so irresponsibly. It’s disgusting.
“The nursery has safeguards in place for checking the garden for any hazards before the children go out to play.
“Our staff are trained to deal with any issues that may cause harm to the children. As usual, they did their job very professionally.”
Angela confirmed the items had been collected and disposed of safely, while parents had been informed of the find.
“I’m told it is a strange thing to happen in this area,” she added. “Nothing like this has ever happened before.
“CCTV from our property, and other businesses, is being monitored in order to help find the person who did this.”
A Care Inspectorate spokesman said: “We have been informed by this service of a serious incident which took place within the nursery grounds.
“The safety and well-being of children in care is always our first priority and we are satisfied this service has taken the appropriate steps. We were also satisfied the immediate steps taken were appropriate.
“This was clearly a distressing incident and anyone with any concerns can contact our helpline on 0845 600 9527.”
A spokeswoman for Dundee City Council confirmed it had received a call about the items.
Police Scotland spokesman said: “Police Scotland, Tayside Division, is aware of the matter.
“Anyone who finds a discarded needle or syringe should not touch it, or try to put it in a litter bin, or down a drain, or flush it down the toilet.
“Anyone who has information regarding drug misuse or dealing is asked to contact police on 101, or pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111.”