Warning over needles

POLICE are urging parents to tell their children about the dangers of picking up used hypodermic syringes on the streets.

Last week, a seven-year-old from Downlands Avenue in Peacehaven picked up two syringes complete with needles. The child was unaware of the dangers and took them to his school. His mother found them the following day shortly before the child was checked by a doctor.

Sector commander Inspector Mark Huff said: 'The needles have since been destroyed. It's unclear what was in the syringes or if they had been used as part of drug paraphernalia. What this incident has done is to highlight the dangers children face on streets, especially if they are unaware of the dangers of recovering needles and syringes.

'I would urge parents to tell their children to leave such items alone if they find them on the streets and tell an adult or police officer immediately. These instruments are not for youngsters and are certainly not toys.'