Children find box of syringes (From Barry And District News)

Children find box of syringes

A FAMILY walking in Penarth Marina were horrified when their youngest daughter picked up a box full of used needles.

Seven-year-old Angelina Saleh, was walking with her mum Kim, sister Sabrina, 16, brother Callum, six and cousin Paula, 14 when she spotted a bright-yellow box on the pebbles. Thinking they were felt pens inside, Angelina and Callum picked it up for a closer look.

Kim, 37, who lives in Pierceville Place, Adams-down said: "Angelina shook the box, and the contents flew out. As I got nearer, I realised they were hypodermic syringes, and some still contained liquid. There must have been about 20 of them.

"I was horrified. I shouted at Angelina to throw it down, then we rushed over to Tesco to get some plastic bags to get them off the pebbles."

Although the light was fading, Kim tried to find as many of the syringes as possible to put them back in the box.

She added: "I shudder to think what could have happened. So many people walk along the pebbles after visiting the barrage.

"I know chemists offer a service where addicts can take their used needles to be disposed of. They should do that instead of risking others' lives."

Vale of Glamorgan police divisional commander, Supt Josh Jones said: "We would encourage addicts to use proper means of disposing of their syringes through needle exchanges or by contacting drug agencies. I also warn parents to ensure their children do not touch such needles, but contact the police or local authority.

"We have had some notable successes recently in the battle against drugs.

"I urge the public to help us by providing information about the suppliers who pose such a threat to our communities by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

The Environmental Health department disposed of the needles found by the Saleh family.