Drug users leave cannisters, broken bottles and rubbish at beauty spot

Residents have found Seafield beach to be covered in empty canisters of nitrous oxide ‘laughing gas’, after claims that upto 50 people flouted the lockdown to gather at the picnic area near Morrisons.

Those living in the Seafield area say they’re concerned that gangs of youths appear to be drinking and taking drugs on their doorsteps.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said that it has made people feel intimidated and concerned for their properties, children and pets.

“This is usually a lovely, quiet area where people come to walk and enjoy the coastline,” said the resident.

“But people seem to be flocking here because they think it’s out of the way.

“We’ve been hearing groups late at night as they make their way from the beach and through the estate into town.”

The nitrous oxide gas, which is sold in small canisters, is a propellant aerosol. It was deemed illegal to use it recreationally under the Psychoactive Substances Act (2016).

“The amount of litter on the beach and along the Fife Coastal Path has been increasing steadily over the past few weeks.

“Dog fouling and discarded dog poo bags are common, as are empty plastic water bottles.

“That’s bad enough, but I was shocked to see the extent of debris left behind by groups of people partying and experimenting with illegal drugs.

“It’s no longer a safe, clean place to take my children during lockdown.”

Dozens of discarded empty canisters of nitrous oxide, otherwise known as ‘hippy crack’, have been left lying around, along with balloons which are used to inhale the gas.

The resident added: “There’s lots of broken glass on the beach and the rubber balloons will likely get washed into the sea and swallowed by marine life.

“It’s as if people just don’t care anymore.”