DRUGS paraphernalia has been found in Embsay by a parish councillor on his weekly litter pick.

Peter Gallagher found two discarded syringes, used lighters and cigarette papers at the foot of a tree near seats at the reservoir.

Mr Gallagher told the Herald that although this was the first time he had found hypodermic needles he had collected other drugs paraphernalia before.

"I'm concerned that they had to drive to get up there, shoot up with heroin or whatever and then they are driving out through the village, high on drugs," he said.

Mr Gallagher said whoever was doing this was "very irresponsible" as it was a public area where children could pick up discarded items.

County and parish councillor Shelagh Marshall said: "I am very concerned about what has been reported to the council. The area where the needles were found is a very popular place for families to go walking. I hope the police are doing everything in their power to ensure that we don't find more needles."

Craven's police commander Chief Insp Chris Chelton told the Herald that police officers would be sent to monitor the area as necessary.

"If people are using hard drugs then quite clearly something needs to be done," he said.