A head teacher and governors have expelled five pupils after they were caught with drugs at school.

The youngsters, students at Warden Park School in Cuckfield, near Haywards Heath, have not been named but head teacher Brian Webb has written to all parents to tell them what happened.

He said the decision was taken after an investigation at the end of January.

In his letter, Mr Webb said: "The reason for the exclusions is possession of an illegal substance on school premises.

"Action has been taken in accordance with school policy. This policy is issued to all parents of students on admission to the school.

"My decision will be dealt with by the governing body, in accordance with West Sussex County Council procedures, to bring this matter to a swift conclusion."

A spokeswoman for the council said work would be sent home from the school for the students until their exclusion was confirmed by the school's governors.

Once it is confirmed, the local education authority will arrange tutors for them until places at an alternative school can be arranged.