POLICE have issued a warning on the dangers of discarded needles after an Irvine schoolboy was stabbed by a syringe.

Officers in North Ayrshire are reminding residents that discarded hypodermic needles and syringes can be a danger to everyone because of the risk of injury and infection to the finder.

Police say while provision is made for the safe disposal of such equipment they could unfortunately still be found in many places and are warning people to be on their guard.

The warning comes just two weeks after Irvine schoolboy Eddie Scott, 10, was chased and stabbed in the hand by an older boy carrying a discarded needle whilst he was out playing at Redburn Community Centre.

Eddie’s horrified mum Kelly, 37, spoke to the Times last week to tell of her fear and terror as the family anxiously await the results of an HIV test.

She said: “We called the police as soon as Eddie told us and they advised us to go straight to hospital, which we did. Eddie had to have blood tests and we are now waiting for the results of an HIV test.

“Other kids have already started saying he has AIDS and HIV. It’s absolutely disgusting.

That test is just routine for anyone who has come into contact with a dirty needle.

People really need to make sure their kids are more aware of these things.

My 10-yearold should not have to be even aware of any of this but this is what we are having to deal with.

“I am a wreck just thinking about the whole thing. I can’t believe my boy was out playing with his pals and it has ended up turning into this.”

A spokesman for Ayrshire Police Division said: “If you come across a needle or syringe don’t touch it or try to hide or conceal it. Please don’t try to dispose of it by kicking it down a drain or putting it in the bin or down the toilet.

“If you are a child, tell a grown up you can trust, such as a parent, carer, teacher or police officer. Contact the local authority who have the equipment required to dispose of the needles safely. North Ayrshire Council - 01294 310000

“If there are a large amount of needles appearing on a regular basis then please also contact the police. Do not pick the needle up yourself as you may injure yourself and could be in danger of being infected.

“If you pierce or puncture your skin with a used needle, encourage the wound to bleed, ideally by holding it under running water, wash the wound using running water and plenty of soap, don’t scrub the wound while you’re washing it and don’t suck the wound and dry the wound and cover it with a waterproof plaster or dressing.

“You should also go to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department.”