THREE pupils have left a leading North-East independent school after they were found with drugs.

Two of the students, who are all aged 15 to 17, were withdrawn from Yarm School, in Yarm, near Stockton, by their parents and another was expelled after one of them was caught giving cannabis to others.

One of the boys was in the first year of his A-levels and the others were due to take their GCSEs this year.

Two were withdrawn after discussions with their parents, and the other was expelled after declining the option of being withdrawn.

Deputy headteacher David Woodward said: "We found a pupil had a small quantity of cannabis in school and had passed it to someone else.

"The pupils have since left the school. We have a clear policy on drug issues and from our point of view, and in discussion with parents, felt it better for them to be able to make a fresh start.

"Another boy was offered the chance to withdraw but declined and was expelled."