A VOLUNTEER who helped clear litter from the Castle Dell in Chepstow ahead of a visit from Wales in Bloom judges was shocked to find used syringes.

Dale Rooke, a Chepstow town councillor in Thornwell, was with his 14-year-old foster son when he made the grim discovery.

Councillor Rooke said he found one syringe in the coach park behind the Tourist Information Centre and three more near the "kissing seat" further up The Dell as well as condoms near the play area.

He said: "It's not what you expect to find but fortunately I'd come prepared with a sharps (needle) box.

"I understand that some people have a drugs problem but there is no need for this.

"They can get sharps boxes free of charge and dispose of needles correctly.

"They probably use this area because it is out of the way and they won't get seen."

Councillor Rooke says he is taking the matter up with the police.

The town council makes a major contribution to Chepstow in Bloom and last year the town won its category in the Wales in Bloom awards.