Police probe after children appear to take drugs in online video at Sunderland school

The video seems to show pupils at The Venerable Bede Church of England Academy sniffing drugs up their noses while in the school grounds.

Several parents concacted the Echo to express concern.

Northumbria Police have launched an investigation into the situation after the video was viewed thousands of times on social media.

And, the students believed to be involved have been excluded while the investigation is carried out.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “Police have been made aware of a video circulating on social media which appears to show two pupils taking an unknown substance.

“Police are currently working with the school concerned and a full investigation is under way to establish the full facts.

“However, we would like to take this opportunity to remind the public about the health dangers of substance misuse. We are also committed to taking appropriate action against those who are found to be involved."

A spokesperson for the Venerable Bede Church of England Academy, said: “We can confirm that there was an incident in school yesterday and that we are working closely with the police.

"We operate a zero tolerance policy with regard to drugs and can also confirm that the pupils in question have been excluded pending the outcome of our enquiries.“

One dad, who did not wish to be named, said: "It is absolutely disgusting. I have nieces and nephews at that school and my own daughter is due to attend, this sort of thing is not acceptable."

Another father, who also didn't want to be named, said: "I have children at that school and I don't want them around drugs. This is terrible."

Anyone with information is urged to contact the police on 101.