DRUG users are turning derelict town centre shops into danger dens.

Discarded hypodermic syringes and surgical swabs are deadly hazards which have been found this week in the rubbish-strewn backyards of empty premises in Railway Road, Leigh.

A concerned local asked The Journal to highlight the health risks after stumbling across the life-threatening needles among a mountain of litter and empty lager cans at the rear of shuttered-up shops.

He said:"It is time something was done about this. Young children could die if they come into contact with this stuff.

"These places are used by addicts aged from 16 to 45. It's a disgrace."

The Journal contacted the Council's environmental health department "sharps" service who deal with such unsavoury finds.

*If you find a needle you are advised to note the exact location, cover it with a bucket, plant pot or similar article or remove it using a bucket and shovel and keep it safe.

Next call the Sharps Service on 01942 511230 and leave a message on the answerphone (9-5). An emergency service is provided up to 10pm weekdays and 9-8 weekends and bank holidays on 01942 404040.

An environmental health department officer will remove the needles.

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