Needle danger for gardeners (From Stroud News and Journal)

Needle danger for gardeners

CONTRACTORS clearing the Bank Gardens borders for planting are running the gauntlet of discarded drug needles.

Alan Wheatley, the foreman for Graduate Gardeners has already discovered four needles left behind by drug addicts.

"Fortunately we were wearing gloves but we could easily have been pricked by a needle," said Mr Wheatley.

The gardeners discovered the needles while clearing the boarders in readiness for spring planting in the gardens. Mr Wheatley said they had not been warned of the perils of working in the park by council officials.

But he said: "Coming from Stroud I knew that the park was used by drug users and I warned the other gardeners to be aware of the possible dangers.

Acting Sgt Geoff Potter of Stroud police said: "We are always trying to prevent and detect this kind of thing. We recommend people do not pick up needles. They should call the police and we will dispose of them safely.

And Lisa Samak street cleaning officer for Stroud District Council said: "We will dispose of syringes We also have sin bins situated in the male and female toilets at Bedford Street where drug users can safely leave their needles."