DRUG users gathering in North Lodge Park, Darlington, have brought complaints from residents.

They say needles and other drugs equipment have been found in the area.

One woman, who asked not to be named, said: "I am very concerned about this. A lot of my customers have mentioned seeing drugs in the area, which is very scary.

"The drug problem is really getting out of control and North Lodge Park seems to be a centre for them all to meet. You wonder what Alan Milburn, as Health Secretary, is up to? If he can't even safeguard the health of his own town, how can he look after the country?"

A council spokesman denied suggestions drug users were encouraged to use the park or that there was a needle exchange programme operating nearby.

He said: "There has been a needle exchange at Elmfield House, in the town, for more than a year but no other facility. Our park wardens are aware that parks attract drug users and we do not want this type of activity in our parks. The wardens make regular patrols and are in contact with beat officers."