A truancy sweep across East Sussex caught more than 90 children out of school.

Officers from the county's education welfare service and Sussex Police carried out patrols earlier this month.

Figures from the sweep reveal that of the 93 youngsters stopped, 14 were found not to have a valid reasons to be out of school and were returned to their classrooms.

The patrols took place in Hastings, where 25 children were stopped; Eastbourne, where a further 25 were questioned; Hailsham, where officers spoke to 12 children; Newhaven, Peacehaven and Seaford, with just one; Bexhill, with 26 stops and Rye with four.

Councillor Rupert Simmons, lead Cabinet member for education at East Sussex County Council, said: "School attendance is one of our top priorities.

"If young people play truant they lose out, not only in terms of missing their education but research shows truancy could lead them on a path to petty crime."

Officers carried out patrols close to shopping centres and town schools.

Education welfare officers inform parents of all children found outside school without a valid reason.