A SHOCKED father has found syringes used for drug-taking in an alley close to a playing field used by children. Olympic and Commonwealth Games weightlifter Tony Morgan, 40, was with his daughter Katie, two, in the alley near Serby Avenue, Royston, when he

A SHOCKED father has found syringes used for drug-taking in an alley close to a playing field used by children.

Olympic and Commonwealth Games weightlifter Tony Morgan, 40, was with his daughter Katie, two, in the alley near Serby Avenue, Royston, when he made the horrific discovery while picking up litter.

He later brought the syringes into the Crow office to warn people about the potential danger.

"I only found three syringes but that is three too many at the end of the day," said Mr Morgan, a care worker, who lives with his family in Yates Close.

"I had gone out with the intention of picking up litter that is thrown around the area but I was shocked when I got to the alley and saw one syringe.

"But after picking up three I was stunned.

"I just couldn't believe what I was finding. But it shows the alley is not being cleaned by the council.

"The danger these syringes pose is frightening. They could pass on TB or even AIDS if someone was stabbed or pricked with these needles. The whole business is shocking."

Mr Morgan wanted to report his horror find to the police but said the police station was closed.

He later took the syringes to be disposed of at the health centre behind the police station.

Royston Safer Neighbourhood sergeant Jon Vine said: "I can assure residents that the Serby Avenue area of Royston does not have a serious drugs problem.

"However, there are those in a minority who are involved in drugs. The Royston Safer Neighbourhood team proactively targets these issues, and offenders, with the help of residents.

"Incidents of this nature are not a common occurrence.

"I would strongly recommend to anyone who discovers such items to never touch or pick up them up, but to contact North Herts District Council's service team on 0800 328 6023, who will come to collect them.

"If you have any concerns about drugs I would urge you to contact the Royston Safer Neighbourhood team on 01438 757966, or the non-emergency number 0845 3300222.

"Alternatively, drop into one of the local neighbourhood surgeries which are advertised on the safer neighbourhood pages of the police website www.herts.police.uk"

A spokesman for North Herts District Council said: "Because of the recent incident this area will be closely monitored to ensure cleansing and health and safety standards are maintained.