A PILOT scheme to train residents in Nelson on how to deal with discarded needles and syringes is now under way.

People living in the town’s Southfield ward received instruction from Pendle Community Safety Partnership during an event at the ACE Centre in Cross Street.

Young and old alike run the risk of being exposed to conditions such as hepatitis C or HIV, through mishandling dumped needles.

The scheme is the first of its kind in East Lancashire and has been backed by borough councillors and residents.

Currently the council runs its own needle disposal service but it only operates between 8.45am and 5pm, Mondays to Fridays.

The pilot is designed to cover gaps such as evenings and weekends.

If it is successful, other areas will be considered.

Elsewhere, a new drugs treatment centre is being opened by CRI at a former care home in Rigby Street, which will feature a needle exchange.