TRADERS have called on police to get tough on drug addicts using public loos.

The toilet block by the QD store, in St John’s Street, Colchester, has become a focal point for drug users who have been leaving needles behind.

Shop owners have described the block as disgusting.

Jack Warnes, co-owner of Geller Butchers, in St John’s Street, said he had also found drug-taking equipment in the alley behind his shop and where his bins are stored.

He said: “We are forever getting problems with drugs paraphernalia and needles.

“A few weeks ago a girl collapsed with a needle in her groin in the public toilet.

“The man she was with dumped a carrier bag of needles in the bin opposite.

“There is a phone box in Abbey Gate Street, next to my shop, and they use that to arrange to get their stuff.”

Mr Warnes said the addicts’ visits were frequent, but at random times during the day.

He accused the police and other authorities of giving them too much leeway.

Katie Martin, manager of Bronzena tanning salon, in St John’s Street, said: “I think the police and council should do something about it.

“Everyone who knows the area knows not to use the toilets.

“I would never go in there because of what I have seen in there. The police must know it is like that and there must be something they can do to stop it.”

A Colchester Council spokesman said: “The council works closely in partnership with Essex Police.

“If the Street Services team receive reports of any illegal activity taking place, the matter will be reported to Essex Police immediately, who have the power to confiscate and enforce.”

No one from Colchester police would comment before the Gazette went to press.