After it was established the syringe was no more than a novelty pen, police expressed concern that children could struggle to tell the difference between the toy and the real thing.

Detective Constable Kenneth Cameron said, “At a time when children and young people are being encouraged to report the finding of needles to police and environmental services to ensure they do not fall victim to a needle-stick injury, it seems incredible such a novelty pen should be freely available to buy.

“My concern is that a child picks up a real syringe and suffers injury owing to the confusion brought about through the availability of this toy.”

Fife Council has urged local shops not to stock the novelty pens.

Geoff Bates, environmental services team leader, said, “I would urge all retailers not to sell these syringes. Shopkeepers need to think of the consequence of a youngster picking up a real syringe mistaking it for a novelty pen. Anyone finding a syringe or needle should report it to Environmental Services on 08451 55 00 22.”

Steve Walker, operations director of Stagecoach East Scotland, added, “We would ask that pupils do not carry these toy pens resembling a syringe to prevent any alarm if one of these was to be found, on the street or on one of our buses.

“Please be aware that every precaution is required when dealing with sharp items on our vehicles and any confusion with a toy pen could cause serious injury.”