A “suspicious” used needle was found in Bushy Park, leading to calls for visitors to avoid littering.

Mark Boyle, a councillor for Fulwell and Hampton Hill, was walking his dog when the needle was spotted by another dog walker, near Hampton Hill Gate.

He said though he is no expert, he thinks the syringe was likely drugs paraphernalia, but a spokesman from the Royal Parks said there was no evidence linking the item to drug use.

Coun Boyle said: “Of course we don’t want used needles lying around in the park; they could be a danger to pets, children and adults.”

The Royal Parks spokesman said: “Litter of this nature is extremely rare, and there is no evidence to confirm this is linked to drugs. The much wider message here relates to how people treat the parks in terms of litter.

“They are open spaces for everyone to enjoy, and while most people treat the parks with respect, there are a small minority who throw litter on the floor.”

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

Bushy Park is a favourite of families and dog walkers

The needle was disposed of safely.

Have you ever seen used needles in the park? Contact the news desk on 0208 722 6326 or email George.odling@london.newsquest.co.uk.