A YOUNG man arrested in connection with a Class-A drugs raid opposite a primary school in a quiet village has been released on police bail.

The 20-year-old was arrested on Wednesday night and questioned by police, and on Thursday forensics teams and specialist officers conducted thorough searches of a property in South Parade, Croft on Tees, near Darlington.

The Northern Echo understands that a makeshift drugs lab was discovered at the house after an unidentified substance was found there.

Tests were carried out on the substance but police would not confirm what it was today.

Numerous police cars, vans and ambulances descended on the village yesterday afternoon and forensics teams were in the house into the evening.

Officers in protective clothing were on scene, with ambulances there as a precaution to treat officers in case any toxic chemicals were found.

Parents of pupils at Croft on Tees Church of England Primary School, directly opposite the four-bedroom terraced home, were contacted to reassure them the children were safe.

The 20-year-old man, who is understood to live in Croft with his mother, was arrested on suspicion of possession of class A drugs with intent to supply. He has been released on police bail while inquiries continue.

Although police would not confirm what the unidentified substance was, it is understood to be a chemical used on drug manufacture and production, and tests were done to confirm its exact make-up.

It is understood police received some intelligence which led to the searches.

The school contacted parents by text message on Thursday to say: "Can I make parents aware police are conducting a house investigation in South Parade. Have informed us no need for alarm. Pupils are safe."