Anger as partying gang of youths leave over 100 'dangerous' laughing gas canisters in playing field

Coun Steven Franklin, one of the councillors for the Howletch Ward in Peterlee has spoken of his horror after finding over 100 laughing gas canisters in a field following a party by a gang of youths.

Councillor Franklin visited St Bede’s field, Peterlee on Tuesday, June 8 to discover that youths had left behind nitrous oxide canisters and empty alcohol bottles.

Volunteers have now cleaned up the mess but residents in the area are concerned over what happened.

Coun Franklin said: “Many of the local residents have read stories online about what this drug can do and they are rightly concerned.

“The laughing gas canisters are dangerous enough but they have smashed glass bottles on a recreational area which is used by families and dog walkers.”

The nitrous oxide canisters, which are sometimes used as an anaesthetic by medical professionals, can cause brain damage.

Coun Franklin has spoken out against the youths taking the gas, especially during a global pandemic.

He added: “People can’t see their families, yet groups of youths are holding large gatherings and running the risk of severely damaging their health.

“I’ve been informed that parents are dropping their children off at the field, knowing full well that they are taking part in a large gathering.

“Parents need to have a second look at this as it’s beyond a joke now.”

Information on the effects of laughing gas can be found by clicking here.

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