ADDICTS, drunken yobs and litter louts who turned a Port beauty spot into a drink and drugs den have drawn an angry backlash.

The Tele revealed earlier this week how used needles, beer cans and other litter had been left scattered around the picnic area next to picturesque Newark Castle.

The site has also been targeted by vandals, who burnt a visitor information sign.

The damage comes less than a fortnight before the high-profile Queen’s Baton relay visits the spot, sparking a race to tidy it up.

Now a Port councillor has slammed those responsible for the mess Councillor Jim MacLeod is infuriated by the people who are intent on spoiling the popular area for everyone else.

Cllor MacLeod said: “It’s an absolute disgrace and unacceptable to see discarded beer cans.

“It’s even more worrying to see drug paraphernalia left behind — that’s not on.

“The mess of the park is not a good image for the district.

“It’s also not good when we are trying to encourage people to go outdoors with their families on walks or with their pets.” Police say they are stepping up patrols in the area in a bid to stop any further problems but Mr MacLeod has also called on members of the public to do their bit for the community and report any unsavoury activity.

He said: “We want to see Inverclyde’s parks being used, especially at this time of year.

“But we all have a responsibility to report these things — police and community wardens can’t be everywhere all the time.

“I would urge anyone who is around the park and who sees anything untoward to phone the police or community wardens straight away.

“They can also call Crimestoppers without revealing their identity.” Inverclyde Council have stepped in to make sure the site is tidy and in good order ahead of the big baton visit.

It arrives here on Monday 14 July.