A SNIFFER dog was used to help police search for drugs among pupils at a Malvern school.

Classrooms at the Chase school in Geraldine Road were searched during lesson time yesterday as part of an operation to help ensure the school is drugs-free and raise awareness among pupils.

A dog from West Midlands Police sniffed at bags and pockets of pupils to see if they had any substances on them.

About 20 officers were at the school for just over three hours while searches of years eight, nine, 10 and sixth form classes were made.

Headteacher Kevin Peck said: “Parents, the police and the local community are responsible for issues surrounding drug and alcohol abuse outside of school hours, as well as the young people themselves.

“However, it is us as a school’s responsibility to provide education and information to our students about the risks of drugs and alcohol to deter them from getting involved in such activity.

“This is why we allow West Mercia Police to bring sniffer dogs into the school from time to time as a deterrent.

“We are determined to do all we can to protect our young people and I’m sure all right-minded people will welcome this action on the part of the school.”

No drugs were found on any pupils during the search.

Local policing officer PC Jemma Greenow, who organised the operation at the school, said: “The operation was a great success and the fact that no drugs were found means that the operation has reinforced a message that is obviously working.”