Syringes used to inject drugs were discovered alongside blood-stained gauzes close to where children play.

A mix of needles and plasters were found accompanied by beer cans, vitamin C pills and the remains of a fire on the banks of the River Len by Cllr Tony Harwood (Lib Dem).

They were in close to a wooden footbridge between the Turkey Mill Business Park, just off Ashford Road and Mote Park.

The grizzly discovery was made on Sunday morning and it is believed they were dumped there following a binge on Saturday night.

They had not been there when Cllr Harwood cleared the same area 24 hours earlier.

The North Ward representative said: “This is a particularly revolting incident because they have been found near where children play and families relax.

Plenty of people were out and about because of the weather which heightens the risk of people finding them.

“There appears no effort had been made to bury the paraphernalia.

“When you think about it, all that and the diseases the syringes could be carrying, it’s very unpleasant.”

Cllr Harwood cleared the area and secured the items ready for collection by Maidstone Council’s cleansing team.

Following the find he walked the site with police and Maidstone Council’s head of community services –- where they discussed surveillance, security and enforcement options.

He is now demanding urgent and tough action.