A HEADTEACHER in Bridport said no children were near the scene of a shelter where drug users' needles were discovered.

Bridport Police found two hypodermic needles at a shelter in a field opposite St Catherine's RC Primary School in Pymore Road, following reports from concerned parents of men 'acting suspiciously' behind a hedge.

Upon arrival, police discovered two homeless males who were advised to leave after admitting they did not have the landowner's permission to be there.

After paying a visit the following day to ensure the men had vacated the shelter, officers located two hypodermic needles, one of which contained an unknown drug.

The needles were then both safely disposed of.

Headteacher Sarah Terry thanked parents for their pivotal role in reporting the concerns to police and outlined that the incident did not happen on school premises nor were any school children involved.

She said: "The safety of our children is paramount and we would like to thank our vigilant parents who contacted the police.

"This is an unfortunate and, thankfully, a rare event. The police dealt with the matter swiftly and effectively.

"The event did not take place on any area of the school site.

"At no time were our children in the vicinity or even close by, however, we will remain aware and make sure we report any suspicious behaviour to the police."

Bridport Police informed the public on what to do in an event of discovering a needle: "We advise members of the public not to pick up needles unless it poses an immediate danger to you or others.

"If the items are discovered on private property (such as an abandoned house, or in a garden, playing field etc.) you should contact the landowner.

"Please note that any needles/sharps and drug-related items found on educational premises (e.g., schools, nurseries, etc.) during working hours should be reported immediately to staff on the premises.

"Do not place needles, syringes or any other kind of clinical waste in your rubbish or recycling bins, even if they are in a sharps box."

If anyone discovers a needle they should contact 01305 221000 or visit the Dorset Council website to report the finding.