SIX used syringes have been found in Middlewich - including one near Cledford Primary School.

Last Wednesday a member of Middlewich Clean Team found two needles in Sutton Lane and reported it to Ansa Environmental Services.

Staff from the waste management company immediately went to investigate and found four more syringes near to the canal bridge.

Stephen Dent, acting chairman of Middlewich Clean Team, said: “It’s not nice to see it happen but people need to be aware of the dangers.

“It has happened a few times in the past and it seems to be around the same areas which is a shame.

“Under no circumstances should people touch these needles and if you do find any then report it as quickly as possible. Even members of the clean team leave them alone.

“It was concerning that one was found so close to the school. But credit to Ansa who responded instantly.

“Please be vigilant. I think a few people were upset when I initially posted online that this had happened but this is so that parents can educate their children to leave needles alone.”

A Cheshire East Council spokesman said: “We can confirm that a number of syringes were found in this location and safely removed.

“Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for our staff to come across hypodermics when cleaning our parks and open spaces and we are grateful to the Middlewich Clean Team for alerting us to this particular danger on this occasion.

“There are serious risks in handling these needles and we would urge our residents not do so and to alert us should they discover any needles that would pose a threat to others, especially children.”

Cledford Primary School was contacted but declined to comment.

To report an incident contact Cheshire East Council on 0300 123 5011