Pensioner Mary Barclay is furious at discovering two used syringes near her home.

Mrs Barclay, of Arncliffe Road, Keighley, found the two dirty syringes on the pavement on Westburn Avenue while on her way to visit her daughter in Exley Head last week.

The mother-of-three - pictured above with the needles - picked them up using an empty cigarette packet. She took them home, out of harm's way.

She says: "I felt sick on seeing them just lying on the pavement because whoever did this obviously couldn't care less about the possibility of children stumbling upon them. There are lots of youngsters living in this area and children are very curious at that age, often picking up things they see.

"I think this is becoming a serious problem in Keighley. It should be brought out into the open. These people should learn to dispose of their needles in a safe manner."

The syringes were taken to Keighley Health Centre, in Oakworth Road.

Keighley's drug action group, Project 6, which is based in Temple Street, advises people to place needles in a strong container with a secure lid while wearing thick gloves. Needles should be handled at their bases, not points. Once safely contained, they should be taken to a chemist, GP, or Project 6 to be disposed of. Alternatively, anyone who finds a needle can ring 01274 751000. Children should get an adult immediately after finding a needle and not touch it.

For more information on needles and syringes, contact Project 6 on 01535 610180.

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