AN INVESTIGATION is underway into allegations of drug-dealing at a school in Hagley, which is believed to involve up to 40 students.

A concerned parent at Haybridge High School contacted the Advertiser after hearing from his child that cannabis had been found in an abandoned bag on the Brake Lane premises last week, resulting in three year-10 pupils facing suspension.

The father, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: "There is a significant problem at the school with drugs at the moment, with around 40 children now facing investigation.

"It all kicked off on Thursday or Friday of last week and none of us parents have been told anything about it.

"You don't want a major drug-dealing problem in any school, especially when your child is there. It's going to tarnish Haybridge's reputation and it's already causing a lot of rumours."

A spokesman for Haybridge confirmed an investigation was ongoing, 'following correct procedure', despite the issue taking place off the school premises and outside school hours.

They added: "We would like to reassure all students, staff and parents or carers that the safety and wellbeing of our students remains our top priority."

West Mercia Police is not involved in the investigation.