Three pupils expelled by Ellesmere College over drug taking

Three pupils have been expelled from a Shropshire private school for taking drugs, it emerged today. The pupils at Ellesmere College were caught using cannabis.

Officials at the £8,679-a-term school today said they took immediate action on discovering drug use among a 'small group' of senior pupils.

Headmaster Brendan Wignall said the incident made for a 'rare and very sad' situation. He said the school took drug misuse very seriously and had been working closely with the police on the investigation.

A spokeswoman said: "Ellesmere College can confirm that it has recently discovered the use of cannabis in the school among a small group of senior pupils."

In a statement, Mr Wignall added: "Three students have left the school as a result of our investigation.

"We are dealing with the situation in line with the school's policies and procedures and with the full knowledge of the police."

Two of the three pupils are in exam years and bosses have ordered them to leave the school with immediate effect. But Mr Wignall said the school would still support them with their exams.

Richard Ewels, West Mercia Police spokesman, said: "We are aware of the situation and have liaised closely with the college."

The school for pupils aged seven to 18 counts former England rugby union captain Bill Beaumont among its alumni and Paul Gascoigne's son Mason is understood to have attended.