Three pupils at one of Sussex's most prestigious public schools have been expelled for smoking cannabis.

The 16-year-olds have been sent on GCSE study leave early and will not be permitted to return after they have completed their exams at £12,000-a-year Eastbourne College.

A fourth student has been suspended for less serious involvement.

Teachers today said no drugs had been brought into the school grounds in Old Wish Road.

Headmaster Charles Bush said use of the drug would not be tolerated.

The three pupils, who all live locally, would have no further contact with the school after they had finished their exams.

The action was taken after it was discovered the trio had smoked cannabis on two occasions earlier this term at weekends, away from school premises.

Mr Bush said: "The cannabis smoking took place at or near one boy's home and elsewhere in the town of Eastbourne."

The college's alumni include cross-dressing comic Eddie Izzard, who grew up in Bexhill, and weather forecaster Michael Fish.

Last year, 100 per cent of its pupils gained at least five A* to C-grade GCSEs, with 50 per cent achieving at least five As.

Boarding fees for last year were £19,035, while day fees were £12,420.