A girl was admitted to hospital after she took ecstasy at school.

The 15-year-old smuggled the tablets into class and took at least one before the lunch break.

She was found at Goring railway station, Worthing, suffering from a rapid heartbeat after worried classmates raised the alarm.

The Year 10 pupil was taken to Worthing Hospital and kept in overnight for observation.

Following the incident, fellow students at Chatsmore Catholic High School in Goring Street, Worthing, were warned about "the foolishness and danger" of becoming involved with drugs.

Headteacher Liz York declined to comment and referred inquiries to West Sussex County Council.

Council spokesman Simon Eden said: "We can confirm that a pupil on Monday took an ecstasy tablet.

"She left the school at lunchtime and the school was tipped off that she had done this.

"An ambulance was called and took her from Goring station to hospital, where she stayed overnight for observation.

"Apparently her heart was beating very fast, which is a symptom of this drug.

"She brought the drugs into the school herself."

Mr Eden said the girl had taken the tablets into school after obtaining them at the weekend.

He did not know how many tablets she had.

He said: "The school has spoken to the appropriate year group about the obvious foolishness and dangers of taking drugs and getting involved in them."

Mr Eden stressed there was no truth in concerns voiced by one parent who contacted The Argus worried that suppliers were dealing in drugs at the school gates.

Miss York declined to say whether the student, who has made a full recovery, would face internal disciplinary action.

It is understood police are investigating the incident and charges relating to the possession of a class A drug could follow.

Chatsmore has more than 550 pupils aged 11 to 16.

At its most recent Ofsted inspection in June 2001, teachers were commended for helping pupils achieve high standards in English, drama, art and design and technology.

Inspectors said the school fostered an ethos of care and respect and sustained good behaviour.