POLICE are urging parents to be extra cautious after junkies' used needles were found dumped in a Leyland playground.

Lancashire Constabulary say resources are being stretched to the limit, dealing with complaints from residents about teenage gangs loitering in local parks at night.

Police say used needles are often found in the recreation areas the following morning.

Sgt Graham Harrison, of Leyland Police, said: "It is a sad sign of the times but we regularly find needles when we get called out to deal with juvenile nuisance in parks in residential areas. In playgrounds they pose a very real threat to young children." Sgt Harrison added: "There's a similar problem all over the town and we are stretched to the limit.

"Council workers are being called out at all times of the night to deal with the needles. It is a very worrying trend, and one which is rapidly getting worse."

Councillor Matthew Tomlinson has reported the problems in the park off King Street, Leyland, to South Ribble Borough Council.

He said: "At first I thought the problem was caused by teenage drinkers. But went to investigate, I found needles among the beer cans and vodka bottles.

"Not only are these youths ruining play facilities and destroying flowerbeds, they are also making the area dangerous. Action needs to be taken."

Sgt Harrison added: "We are targetting several areas, including the recreation ground in Bent Lane and this site off King Street."

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